Author/Authors :
TARKAN, Özgür Çukurova University - Faculty of Medicine - Department of Otolaryngology, Head, and Neck Surgery, TURKEY , TUNCER, Ülkü Çukurova University - Faculty of Medicine - Department of Otolaryngology, Head, and Neck Surgery, TURKEY , BOZDEMİR, Hacer Çukurova University - Faculty of Medicine - Department of Neurology, TURKEY , SARPEL, Tunay Çukurova University - Faculty of Medicine - Department of Physical Th erapy and Rehabilitation, TURKEY , ÖZDEMİR, Süleyman Çukurova University - Faculty of Medicine - Department of Otolaryngology, Head, and Neck Surgery, TURKEY , SÜRMELİOĞLU, Özgür Çukurova University - Faculty of Medicine - Department of Otolaryngology, Head, and Neck Surgery, TURKEY
Abstract :
Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate shoulder functions after neck dissection with preservation of the spinal accessory nerve by objective physical examination, electromyographic findings, and subjective patient complaints, and also to investigate the effect of the type of neck dissection. Materials and methods: The present study included 29 patients on whom unilateral selective or modified radical neck dissection was performed for head and neck cancer and/or metastasis to the neck. Electromyographical findings, rangeof motion, and pain scores of the shoulder joint were determined for the operated and nonoperated (control) sides. Results: An electromyographic examination of the trapezius and sternocleidomastoid muscle with superficial and pinelectrodes showed a statistically significant difference when comparing the latency and amplitude values of the operatedand nonoperated sides (P 0.05). Flexion, abduction, and external rotation of the shoulder joint were found to be significantly affected on the operated side (P 0.05). Electrophysiological differences were not found with regards to neck dissection types. Mild or moderate pain was observed at the early stage with a visual pain scale. Conclusion: Despite spinal accessory nerve preservation during neck dissection, electrophysiological changes and alterations in clinical functions might be seen in all areas of the nerve that innerves the shoulder muscles.
Keywords :
Selective neck dissection , shoulder dysfunction , spinal accessory nerve , head and neck cancer , range of motion , rehabilitation