Transverse incision in radical neck dissection

Background: Radical neck dissection is the only way to stage patients with neoplasms at risk of lymph node metastases; various types of incisions have been made throughout history, the goal: to obtain sufficient exposure to allow complete resection of the nodal groups at risk. It is important to combine ontological safety with adequate aesthetics, functionality and quality of life. Methods: Retrospective evaluation of the result obtained with the transverse neck incision in patients submitted to radical neck dissection, the parameter used to know if this incision is adequate is the number of dissected lymph nodes. Results: There are 35 patients, 30 with metastasis of squamous cell carcinoma and 5 with melanoma metastasis. The average of dissected lymph nodes was 25. A single incision allowed the dissection of the five nodal levels, it was not necessary to convert the incision or make vertical enlargements; the cosmetic result was satisfactory in all patients, there were no major complications. Conclusion: The unique transverse cervical incision allows access to the five cervical levels, it can be enlarged bilaterally; in the present series, the mean number of dissected lymph nodes was 25 enough to consider the procedure as complete. The aesthetic result was satisfactory.