The ultimate modification in the modified neck dissection

Purpose A study was undertaken to study the potential benefits for function and regional recurrence of preserving the sensory ventral branches of the cervical plexus in modified neck dissections. Methods Fifteen cases of squamous cell carcinoma or melanoma of the head and neck in which the sensory nerves were spared were matched to 15 cases in which the nerves were sacrificed. The subjects were examined for sensory loss, questioned regarding acute and chronic dysfunction, and followed for regional recurrence for a minimum of 2 years. Results The group whose nerves were preserved had significantly less sensory loss and a lower incidence of acute and chronic dysfunction. No subjects in either group had regional recurrence. Conclusion The results of this initial study support a policy of routine preservation of the sensory ventral branches of the cervical plexus when there is no direct tumor involvement.