title: Neck dissection: concepts, controversies, and technique.
abstract: The various types of neck dissections are described. The indications for each type of neck dissection are discussed for patients with necks staged N0, N+, for the patient with an unknown primary and for the patient whose neck dissection is in conjunction with radiation. The technical aspects of modified neck dissections are addressed but not in great detail. The indications for the use of postoperative radiation are emphasized. The nodal groups at risk for metastases from various primary sites are identified and a terminology for neck dissection is suggested.
authors.affiliation: Department of Head and Neck Surgery, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston 77030.
authors.forename: R M
authors.initials: RM
authors.lastname: Byers
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D008197:Lymph Node Excision; D037981:Neck Dissection; D013524:Surgical Flaps