Complications of Selective Neck Dissection for Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Head and Neck Region

Abstract

Objective: To determine the complications of the selective neck surgery for oral squamous cell carcinoma.

Study Design: Cross-sectional Study.

Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted in dental section, Mayo hospital, Lahore from 1ST January to 31ST December 2002

Methods and Materials: Fifteen patients of squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity were selected. All the patients underwent selective neck surgery. Postoperative complications were recorded at each follow up visit. The patients were kept under study for one year.

Results: Post operatively, secondary hemorrhage occurred in 26.7%, of the patients, delayed healing due to infection in 46.7 % of the patients. There was no recurrence after 1 month, 3 month and 6 month. However after 9 months recurrence was noted in 20% of patients.

Conclusion: Complications occur after selective neck surgery. Recurrence however is higher with selective neck surgery.