Cancer-Related Neck Lymph Node Removal (Neck Dissection — Selective / Radical)

Neck dissection is a surgical procedure to remove lymph nodes from the neck when they are involved by cancer or are at risk of cancer spread. It is one of the most frequently performed procedures in head and neck oncology. Dr. Antony Raj James has specialized training in head and neck oncology and extensive experience with all types of neck dissection.

Why is Neck Dissection Performed?

Head and neck cancers — including oral cavity, pharyngeal, laryngeal, thyroid, and skin cancers — commonly spread to lymph nodes in the neck. Neck dissection serves to:

• Remove lymph nodes that contain cancer (therapeutic dissection)
• Remove lymph nodes at significant risk of microscopic cancer spread, even if not clinically enlarged (elective dissection)
• Provide accurate pathological staging to guide adjuvant treatment decisions

Types of Neck Dissection

• Selective Neck Dissection – Removal of specific lymph node levels (I–V) at risk for a given primary tumor site, while preserving all non-lymphatic structures (sternocleidomastoid muscle, internal jugular vein, accessory nerve). This is the most commonly performed type for elective and selected therapeutic cases.
• Modified Radical Neck Dissection – Removal of all five cervical lymph node levels (I–V) with preservation of one or more non-lymphatic structures (accessory nerve, internal jugular vein, sternocleidomastoid muscle).
• Radical Neck Dissection – Removal of all five lymph node levels together with the sternocleidomastoid muscle, internal jugular vein, and accessory nerve. Reserved for cases with extensive nodal disease involving these structures.
• Extended Neck Dissection – Includes removal of additional lymph node groups or non-lymphatic structures beyond those in a radical neck dissection, for cases with very advanced regional disease.

Surgical Expertise

Dr. James has extensive experience with radical, comprehensive, and selective neck dissections across levels I–V. Neck dissection is frequently performed concurrently with primary tumor resection as part of comprehensive head and neck cancer surgery. Safe neck dissection requires careful identification and preservation of vital structures including the accessory nerve, hypoglossal nerve, vagus nerve, phrenic nerve, internal carotid artery, and internal jugular vein.

Multidisciplinary Cancer Care

Pathological nodal staging from neck dissection directly influences post-operative treatment planning. Dr. James participates in tumour-board discussions to integrate surgical findings with radiation oncology and medical oncology recommendations for comprehensive cancer management.

Why Choose Dr. Antony Raj James?

• Specialized Head & Neck Oncology Training – MCh in Head & Neck Oncology from Tata Memorial Hospital/ACTREC, Mumbai.
• Extensive Neck Dissection Experience – All types of neck dissection at levels I–V, including in complex and previously treated necks.
• Safe Surgical Technique – Careful preservation of neurovascular structures during neck dissection.
• Multidisciplinary Approach – Coordinated surgical and adjuvant cancer management.