Neck Dissection Surgery in Head and Neck Cancer Operation: A Complete Guide

Facing a diagnosis of head or neck cancer is overwhelming for any family. In India, where oral and throat cancers are highly prevalent, understanding the surgical path is the first step toward recovery. When a tumor is removed, the doctor often performs a neck operation to check if the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes.

Dr. Lalit Banswal, a renowned cancer specialist in Pune with over 15 years of experience, specializes in advanced Neck Cancer Surgery in Pune. Operating at the state-of-the-art Sai Vedant Multi-Speciality Hospital, he ensures that every cancer operation is precise, focusing on both curing the disease and preserving the patient’s appearance and function.

Let’s understand:

• What MRND surgery and radical neck dissection actually mean.
• Why a lymphadenectomy (removal of lymph nodes) is vital for your cure.
• The different MRND types and levels of the neck involved.
• How a top Oncosurgeon in Pune like Dr. Lalit Banswal plans the procedure.
• What to expect during recovery and how to choose the right surgeon.

The MRND full form in medical is Modified Radical Neck Dissection. It is a major neck operation performed to remove lymph nodes that may contain cancer cells.

• Radical Neck Dissection: This is the traditional approach where all lymph node groups from neck level I to V are removed along with three important structures: the muscle (SCM), the vein (IJV), and the nerve (SAN).
• Modified Radical Neck Dissection (MRND): In modern oncology, we prefer this “functional” approach. The goal is to remove all the cancer-carrying nodes but “spare” or save the vital nerves and muscles to maintain shoulder movement and facial symmetry.

Cancer cells often travel from the primary site (like the tongue or throat) through the lymphatic system. These lymph nodes dissection procedures are necessary because:

• Staging: It tells the doctor exactly how far the cancer has spread.
• Prevention: It removes “microscopic” cancer that imaging (CT/MRI) might miss.
• Local Control: It reduces the chance of the cancer returning in the neck area.

Depending on the spread, a Pune cancer specialist will choose one of the following:

As a leading Oncosurgeon in Pune, Dr. Lalit Banswal uses a “Tailored Approach.” The decision is based on:

• The Primary Site: Tongue cancer usually goes to neck level I, II, and III, while laryngeal cancer might go to levels II, III, and IV.
• Imaging Results: High-resolution scans show which nodes are “suspicious.”
• Clinical Examination: Feeling the neck for hard, fixed lumps.

A neck cancer surgery in Pune at Sai Vedant Multi-Speciality Hospital follows a meticulous process:

• Incision: The surgeon makes a specific incision for neck dissection. Common types include the Schobinger incision or the modified Schobinger incision (often called a “hockey stick” shape) to allow the best access.
• Flap Elevation: The skin and platysma muscle are lifted to expose the surgical neck structures.
• Dissection: The surgeon carefully removes the fatty tissue containing the lymph nodes while preserving the carotid artery and vital nerves.
• Closure: Drains are placed to prevent fluid buildup, and the neck dissection incisions are closed with fine sutures for minimal scarring.

While generally safe in expert hands, potential risks include:

• Shoulder Weakness: If the spinal accessory nerve is stretched or removed.
• Numbness: Temporary or permanent loss of sensation around the ear/neck.
• Chyle Leak: Leakage of lymphatic fluid (rare).
• Infection: Managed with high-grade antibiotics at Sai Vedant Multi-Speciality Hospital.

Recovery is a step-by-step journey:

• Hospital Stay: Usually 3 to 5 days.
• Drains: Removed once fluid output decreases.
• Physiotherapy: Essential to keep the shoulder mobile and prevent stiffness.
• Follow-up: Regular visits with your best oncologist Pune to monitor healing.

Choosing the right Pune cancer specialist makes all the difference in survival and quality of life.

• Experience: 15+ years and 18,000+ surgeries.
• Precision: Expert in complex lymphadenectomy and MRND surgery.
• Advanced Facility: Sai Vedant Multi-Speciality Hospital offers the latest ICU and surgical technology.
• Patient Focus: Known as the best oncologist Pune for his ethical and compassionate care.

A radical neck dissection or MRND is a life-saving tool in the fight against head and neck cancer. With early detection and the expertise of Dr. Lalit Banswal, patients can achieve excellent long-term results.

If you or a loved one is seeking Neck Cancer Surgery in Pune, do not wait. Early intervention is the key to a cure.

Book an appointment with Dr. Lalit Banswal today at Sai Vedant Multi Speciality Hospital, Undri, Pune. Call +91 9158050180 for expert guidance.