Selective neck dissection in Fayetteville is a precise surgical procedure used to remove lymph nodes affected by thyroid or head and neck cancers. At Grant Thyroid Surgery, Dr. David Grant—a fellowship-trained head and neck surgeon—offers expert care to control cancer spread while preserving vital structures and minimizing unnecessary tissue removal.
What Is Selective Neck Dissection?
Selective neck dissection is a targeted surgical procedure used to remove specific groups of lymph nodes in the neck that are likely to contain cancer. Unlike radical neck dissections, this approach preserves key muscles, nerves, and blood vessels not directly involved with the disease. It is commonly performed in cases of thyroid cancer or head and neck cancer to reduce the risk of cancer spread while maintaining function and appearance. The goal is to achieve effective cancer control with less postoperative morbidity and faster recovery.
Potential Reasons to Consider Selective Neck Dissection:
- Suspicion or confirmation of cancer spread to specific lymph nodes
- Presence of enlarged or abnormal lymph nodes on imaging
- Biopsy-proven lymph node metastasis in the neck
- Staging of thyroid or head and neck cancers
- Recurrence of cancer in previously treated areas
- Need to reduce tumor burden before or after radiation therapy
- Planning for future reconstructive or therapeutic procedures
Preserve Vital Nerves, Muscles, and Blood Vessels
Extensive (radical) neck dissections can lead to long-term shoulder weakness, limited neck mobility, and visible scarring due to the removal of critical nerves, muscles, and blood vessels. Selective neck dissection, by contrast, aims to remove only the lymph nodes at the highest risk for cancer spread. This approach preserves essential structures like the spinal accessory nerve, internal jugular vein, and sternocleidomastoid muscle. By minimizing disruption, patients often experience better cosmetic outcomes and improved long-term function, allowing them to maintain a higher quality of life after surgery.
Benefits of Selective Neck Dissection:
- Targets only lymph node groups at risk for cancer spread
- Preserves key nerves, muscles, and blood vessels
- Reduces postoperative pain and functional limitations
- Lowers the risk of long-term shoulder dysfunction
- Minimizes visible scarring and cosmetic changes
- Allows for quicker recovery and return to normal activities
- Provides accurate cancer staging for treatment planning
- Can be combined with thyroid or head and neck surgery if needed
How Is Selective Neck Dissection Done?
During a selective neck dissection, your surgeon will make a carefully placed incision along a natural skin crease in your neck to access the lymph nodes. Only the lymph node levels most likely to contain cancer are removed based on imaging and diagnosis. Throughout the procedure, vital structures—such as nerves controlling shoulder movement, major blood vessels, and neck muscles—are preserved. The surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia and may be done alongside thyroid or head and neck tumor removal.
Recovery After Selective Neck Dissection
After your selective neck dissection in Fayetteville, you can expect a smoother recovery compared to more extensive procedures. You’ll likely stay in the hospital for a short period, often just one night. Mild discomfort, swelling, or stiffness may occur, but most patients resume normal activities within a few weeks. Because key nerves and muscles are preserved, you’re less likely to experience long-term functional issues. You’ll receive specific instructions on wound care, activity restrictions, and follow-up appointments to ensure the best possible outcome.
Selective Neck Dissection FAQs
Is Selective Neck Dissection Always Necessary for Thyroid Cancer?
Not always. Selective neck dissection is typically recommended when imaging or biopsy confirms cancer spread to specific lymph nodes. In some low-risk thyroid cancers, lymph nodes may not need to be removed at all. Dr. Grant evaluates each case individually to determine whether dissection is appropriate based on your diagnosis and staging.
Will I Have a Visible Scar After Surgery?
Yes, there will be a scar, but it is typically placed in a natural skin crease and often fades significantly over time. Dr. Grant uses meticulous surgical techniques to minimize visible scarring and support optimal cosmetic outcomes.
Can Selective Neck Dissection Be Done at the Same Time as Thyroid Surgery?
Yes. If cancer has spread from the thyroid to lymph nodes in your neck, Dr. Grant can perform selective neck dissection during the same operation. This allows for comprehensive treatment and avoids the need for a second surgery.
Schedule Your Consultation With Dr. Grant
Dr. David Grant is a fellowship-trained head and neck surgeon with extensive expertise in managing thyroid and head and neck cancers. Board-certified in otolaryngology-head and neck surgery, Dr. Grant offers advanced procedures like selective neck dissection with precision, preserving vital structures while ensuring effective cancer control. If you’ve been diagnosed with cancer involving neck lymph nodes, schedule your consultation for selective neck dissection in Fayetteville with Dr. Grant today.
