Neck dissection is a specialized surgical procedure used to remove lymph nodes affected by head and neck cancers, including thyroid cancer. At Grant Thyroid Surgery, Dr. David Grant—an internationally trained head and neck surgeon—offers expert, compassionate care to treat cancer while preserving function and minimizing complications.
What Is Neck Dissection?
Neck dissection is performed to remove lymph nodes and surrounding tissue in the neck that may contain cancer. It is recommended when head and neck cancers, such as thyroid cancer, have spread to nearby lymph nodes. The procedure can vary in extent depending on the location and severity of the disease—ranging from selective removal of specific nodes to more comprehensive (radical) dissection. Dr. Grant uses advanced techniques to remove affected tissue while preserving vital nerves, blood vessels, and muscles whenever possible.
Potential Reasons to Consider Neck Dissection:
- Presence of cancerous lymph nodes in the neck
- Diagnosis of thyroid cancer with suspected lymph node spread
- Treatment of head and neck cancers involving nearby lymph nodes
- Recurrent cancer detected after previous treatment
- Removal of enlarged or abnormal lymph nodes for diagnosis
- Preventing further cancer spread within the neck
Minimize the Risk of Further Cancer Progression
Lymph nodes act as filters for harmful substances, but they can also serve as pathways for cancer to spread. When cancer cells travel from a primary tumor to nearby lymph nodes, the risk of further progression increases. Neck dissection targets these affected lymph nodes to remove cancerous tissue and limit the spread. By removing involved nodes early, this procedure helps contain the disease, improves the accuracy of staging, and supports long-term outcomes.
Benefits of Neck Dissection:
- Removes cancerous lymph nodes before further spread
- Improves accuracy of cancer staging
- Enhances the effectiveness of follow-up treatments like radiation or chemotherapy
- Reduces the risk of cancer recurrence in the neck
- Allows for detailed pathological analysis of lymph nodes
- Provides symptom relief from enlarged or painful nodes
- Preserves vital structures when performed by an experienced surgeon
How Is Neck Dissection Done?
During a neck dissection, you’ll be placed under general anesthesia. Dr. Grant will make a carefully planned incision along the natural skin creases of your neck. He will then remove targeted lymph nodes and surrounding tissue while preserving essential structures like nerves, blood vessels, and muscles whenever possible. Depending on the extent of cancer spread, either a selective, modified, or comprehensive dissection will be performed.
Recovery After Neck Dissection
After your neck dissection, you’ll likely stay in the hospital for one to two days for monitoring. You may experience temporary swelling, discomfort, or numbness in the neck area. Dr. Grant and his team will guide you through wound care, activity restrictions, and pain management. Most patients resume light activities within two weeks, with full recovery taking several weeks. Follow-up visits will also be scheduled to ensure proper healing.
Neck Dissection FAQs
What Are the Different Types of Neck Dissection?
There are three main types: selective, modified radical, and radical neck dissection.
- Selective dissection removes only certain lymph node groups.
- Modified radical removes most nodes but preserves nerves and muscles.
- Radical dissection removes all lymph nodes in one side of the neck, along with additional structures if needed.
Will Neck Dissection Leave a Scar?
Yes, but Dr. Grant carefully places incisions within natural neck creases to reduce visibility. Over time, scars typically fade and become less noticeable with proper wound care.
Is Neck Movement Affected After Surgery?
You may experience stiffness or limited movement immediately after surgery, especially if more extensive tissue is removed. Physical therapy and stretching exercises can help restore motion. Dr. Grant takes care to preserve function whenever possible.
Is Neck Dissection Always Necessary for Thyroid Cancer?
Not always. Neck dissection is typically recommended when imaging or biopsy confirms that cancer has spread to the lymph nodes. In cases of low-risk thyroid cancer without lymph node involvement, the procedure may not be required. Dr. Grant will assess your individual case to determine if neck dissection is appropriate.
Schedule Your Consultation With Dr. Grant
Dr. David Grant is a fellowship-trained head and neck surgeon with international expertise in advanced cancer surgery, including neck dissection. At Grant Thyroid Surgery, we coordinate your entire treatment journey—from diagnosis through recovery—with unmatched attention to detail and support. If you’re facing a diagnosis that may require neck dissection, schedule your personalized consultation with Dr. Grant today to receive expert guidance.
