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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Is angina dangerous? Is angina chronic heart disease?

Angina, called angina pectoris by doctors, is a symptom of underlying coronary heart disease. It is caused by the narrowing of the heart arteries due to atherosclerosis, and is present in about 7 million Americans, with about 400,000 new cases yearly Angina pectoris refers to the aching and gripping pain that occurs in the area under the breastbone in the central part of the chest, and it may extend to the jaw or to the left shoulder and arm. This pain, usually lasting less than five minutes, occurs most typically in response to exercise, and is more common on exposure to cold, after meals, or during stressful moments.

What does unstable angina mean? 

Your doctor will term your angina “stable angina” if it comes at predictable times over a few weeks, but will refer to it as “unstable angina” if the pain comes at rest, is more severe, or increases in duration (over ten minutes) or frequency. Unstable angina is a signal that you need to seek immediate medical attention, as it may be the warning symptom of an impending heart attack.

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