Neck dissection with the intention of vessel preservation

Abstract

Head and neck cancer surgery, consisting of primary resection, neck dissection and reconstruction, is a collaboration of surgeons who resect cancer (ENT surgeons, oral and maxillofacial surgeons) and plastic surgeons. Paying attention to postoperative function is necessary; however, radicality of surgery is the primary concern. With elective neck dissection of N0 patients, vessel preservation is a matter of course, and is not impossible in treatment by neck dissection. Preserving cervical vessels in good condition for microanastomosis enables plastic surgeons to reconstruct a surgical defect using a free flap easily and freely. This reduces operating time and postoperative complication rate, thus improving the quality of life of head and neck cancer patients after major surgery.