What is a radical neck dissection? when is it done?

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What is a radical neck dissection? The surgeon removes a block of tissue from the collarbone to the jaw and from the front to the back of the neck. The large muscle on the side of the neck that is used for rotating, flexing or extending the neck is also taken out, along with the major vein on the side of the neck. Sometimes, a less drastic operation, called a supraomohyoid neck dissection is done. This takes out only the lymph nodes, the tissue surrounding the nodes and a muscle at the front of the neck. Another technique, called a functional neck dissection, saves the muscles of the neck, taking out only the lymph nodes and tissues surrounding them.
What kind of incision is made with a radical neck dissection? The incision depends upon what the surgery is for. It can run from below the ear to the collarbone. Everything in the front of the neck on one side or on both sides may be removed. This may include the lymph nodes, blood vessels, nerves, and the salivary gland under the jawbone.

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Could my stomach ulcer be cancer?

No. But some tumors of the stomach can have ulcerlike symptoms and diagnosis can sometimes be difficult. What happens if the ulcer doesn't heal and I continue to have symptoms even on the diet? Suppose I'm tired of having had this business for so many years, and I don't want to be on a diet anymore.

Surgery is advised when the ulcer or the patient becomes unmanageable by the usual methods and the condition is intolerable. In general the surgical results for these kinds of symptoms are excellent. Nine out of ten patients are completely cured in that they will be free of pain, able to eat virtually everything, and secure from future complications. Smoking and alcohol consumption should still be avoided.

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