Lateral neck dissection: 3D anatomy

Abstract

Neck dissection is a commonly performed procedure in the treatment of most head and neck cancers, and principles of neck dissection surgery are used in the surgical treatment of a variety of benign processes as well. Developing a working knowledge of neck anatomy is critical for otolaryngologists in training to navigate through the neck competently and efficiently, whether during neck dissection or other transcervical surgical approaches. With the use of 3-dimensional stereoscopic imaging techniques, neck dissection is herein reviewed with an emphasis on understanding the anatomic relationships of the critical structures within the neck.