During posterior neck dissection, level V metastatic lymph nodes in the neck are removed. The procedure preserves the sternocleidomastoid muscle, internal jugular vein and spinal accessory nerve.
Also Known As:
- Neck surgery
- Neck dissection
Conditions Treated with Posterior Neck Dissection:
Posterior neck dissection is utilized to treat level V metastatic neck cancer in the lymph nodes.
There are no comparable non-surgical alternatives to posterior neck dissection. Surgical alternatives include modified, functional and radical neck dissection.
Anesthesia with Posterior Neck Dissection:
Posterior neck dissection is performed under general anesthesia, which means that the patient is asleep and completely unaware during the procedure.
Potential Complications from Posterior Neck Dissection:
Possible risks following posterior neck dissection include bleeding, dry mouth and a negative reaction to the anesthesia. The patient can also experience damage to a nerve, arteries and veins. There is a higher risk of infection after removal of lymph nodes.
Recovery from Posterior Neck Dissection:
Recovery time following posterior neck dissection is seven to 10 days.