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A technique to identify and preserve the spinal accessory nerve during neck dissection

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  31 March 2006

D A Chaukar ,
A Pai  and
A K D'Cruz
D A Chaukar
Affiliation:
Department of Surgical Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, India
A Pai
Affiliation:
Department of Surgical Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, India
A K D'Cruz
Affiliation:
Department of Surgical Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, India
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Abstract

Introduction: Preservation of the spinal accessory nerve during neck dissection should be the rule rather than the exception. Despite the presence of many described techniques to locate the nerve, a tedious dissection is often required; as a consequence, it remains vulnerable to damage.

Method: We describe a novel method, not previously reported, based on identifying a constant vein which crosses the nerve. This aids in the nerve's early identification.

Conclusion: Our method enables the surgeon to locate the nerve precisely and to avoid damage to it, thereby maximizing post-operative function.

Keywords

Accessory NerveNeck DissectionMorbidityShoulder
Type
Short Communication
Information
The Journal of Laryngology & Otology , Volume 120 , Issue 6 , June 2006 , pp. 494 - 496
Copyright
© 2006 JLO (1984) Limited

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