Concerns in patients undergoing neck dissection surgery

Abstract

SummaryLymph node involvement is common in patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma. The knowledge of surgical techniques and classifications of the lymph node levels and of the surgical procedures is essential. Some concerns still exist regarding the indications and the extension of lymph node dissection both for central and lateral neck dissection. Central neck dissection is mandatory in case of macroscopic central neck nodal involvement. In patients with clinically node negative papillary thyroid carcinoma the role of prophylactic central neck dissection remains matter of debate. Regarding the lateral neck dissection the majority of guidelines recommend that it should be performed only with therapeutic intent. In spite of this consensus regarding the indications, the extension of therapeutic lateral neck dissection is still debated. In case of reoperation surgical strategy should be adequately planned in order to reduce the risk of potential complications achieving an optimal locoregional control of t...