Neck Dissection: Nomenclature, Classification, and Technique

Lymph node status is the single most important prognostic factor in head and neck cancer because lymph node involvement decreases overall survival by 50%. Appropriate management of the regional lymphatics, therefore, plays a central role in the treatment of the head and neck cancer patients. Performing an appropriate neck dissection results in minimal morbidity to the patient, provides invaluable data to accurately stage the patient, and guides the need for further therapy. The purposes of this article are to present the history and evolution of neck dissections, including an update on the current state of nomenclature and current neck dissection classification, describe the technique of the most common neck dissection applicable to oral cavity cancers, and discuss some of the complications associated with neck dissection. Finally, a brief review of sentinel lymph node biopsy will be presented.