Neck dissection is the surgical removal of lymphatic tissue and surrounding structures in the neck to manage metastatic spread from head and neck cancers. A selective neck dissection removes only specific lymph node levels at highest risk, sparing vital muscles, nerves, and vessels. A modified radical neck dissection excises all lymph node levels I–V while preserving one or more non‐lymphatic structures (e.g., the spinal accessory nerve, sternocleidomastoid muscle, or internal jugular vein). A radical neck dissection is the most extensive, removing lymphatic levels I–V along with the accessory nerve, sternocleidomastoid muscle, and jugular vein when needed for oncologic control.
Dr. Hitesh R. Singhavi tailors the extent of dissection based on preoperative imaging (contrast-enhanced CT or PET-CT) and biopsy data. Before surgery, he collaborates with radiologists to map nodal involvement and with medical oncologists to integrate any required neoadjuvant therapy. Under general anesthesia, he employs intraoperative nerve monitoring to protect the spinal accessory nerve and preserve shoulder function whenever oncologically safe. Skin incisions are designed in well-concealed neck creases for optimal cosmetic outcome. Frozen-section pathology confirms clearance of suspicious nodes before closure. Postoperative care includes early initiation of physiotherapy to prevent shoulder dysfunction, targeted wound care to minimize seroma formation, and dietary planning to ensure adequate nutrition during recovery.
Under Dr. Singhavi’s precise technique, patients achieve thorough regional disease control with minimized functional loss. By selecting the least‐extensive dissection that achieves oncologic safety, he reduces postoperative pain and preserves shoulder mobility, neck strength, and sensation. Modified and selective approaches shorten hospital stays, diminish the risk of lymphedema, and accelerate recovery compared to radical procedures. Close coordination with physical therapists enables most patients to resume daily activities within weeks. In the long term, meticulous surgical technique combined with comprehensive rehabilitation ensures durable cancer control, excellent cosmetic results, and preserved quality of life.
