Complications after neck dissection

Abstract

Introduction: Neck dissection has been a well-established procedure used to eradicate metastases to the regional lymph nodes of the neck. Most of the complications are inevitable, and various efforts have been made to try and reduce complications by modifying the aggressive surgical procedure. A systematic review of 82 patients who underwent neck dissections has been done. The objective of this study is to report the various complications, complication rates in various neck dissection procedures and to seek improved patient care and outcome. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis of complications in 82 patients who underwent neck dissection from May 1, 2010 to December 31, 2013. Results: Out of 82 patients 16 (19.51%) experienced some complication and 7 (8.53%) patients had significant complications that required surgical revision. No major vessel rupture was observed. Conclusion: A careful preoperative assessment, meticulous surgical technique, high-quality postoperative care and appropriate rehabilitation are the cornerstones of preventing and managing complications.