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Neck Dissection | Rocky Mountain Pediatric ENT Associates

Neck Dissection

DefinitionReasons for ProcedureCall Your Doctor revision


Neck dissection is surgery to remove the lymph nodes and surrounding tissue in the neck. There are 3 types of neck dissection:

Lymph Nodes 

This procedure may be done to remove neck and throat cancers or to prevent some cancers of the head from spreading after the cancer has been removed. It may also be done to remove a lymph node for biopsy.


All procedures have some risk. Your doctor will review potential problems, like:



Leading up to your procedure, you will need to:


You will be given general anesthesia through an IV. It will block pain and keep you asleep through the surgery.


An incision will be made on the side of your neck. The selected tissue will be identified and carefully separated from tissue that will remain. Lymph nodes and selected tissue will then be carefully removed. If you are having a radical neck dissection, the jugular vein, muscles, and nerves will also be removed.

Drains may be placed to prevent fluid buildup in the area. The incision is closed with stitches and covered with a dressing.


After the operation, you will be taken to the recovery room for observation. You may be monitored in the intensive care unit overnight.




You will have some pain after the procedure. Ask your doctor about medication to help with the pain.



Right after the procedure, the staff may:

Your length of stay will depend on how much tissue was removed and what symptoms you may be experiencing. Most people are able to leave the care center the day after surgery.


When you return home:




