[Spinal accessory nerve functions after functional and lateral neck dissections: an electromyographic study].

Abstract

OBJECTIVES:

This study was designed to determine electromyographic findings of the spinal accessory nerve (SAN) after elective functional (level II-V) and lateral neck dissections (level II-IV) in N0 patients with supraglottic larynx carcinoma.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

The study included 10 patients (five bilateral) who underwent functional (FND), and 10 patients (all bilateral) who underwent lateral (LND) neck dissection for supraglottic larynx carcinoma. Those with a history of myopathy, neuropathy, recurrent disease, or previous radiotherapy were excluded. Functions of the SAN were evaluated with EMG after at least 12 months postoperatively. The results were assessed in four groups as normal functions, or neurogenic deficit of mild, moderate, or severe degree.

RESULTS:

Neurogenic deficits were found in the sternocleidomastoid muscle in eight necks (53.3%) and in the trapezius muscle in seven necks (46.6%) in the FND group. However, only two necks (10%) exhibited neurogenic deficits affecting both muscles in the LBD group. Comparison between the two groups showed a significant difference in terms of SAN functions (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION:

Compared to FND, LND is associated with significantly less neurogenic damage secondary to SAN dissection.

• Authors: Imdat Yüce, Sedat Cağli, Emel Köseoğlu, Ercihan Güney
• Journal: Kulak burun bogaz ihtisas dergisi : KBB = Journal of ear, nose, and throat (Kulak Burun Bogaz Ihtis Derg) Vol. 17 Issue 4 Pg. 201-5 ( 2007) ISSN: 1300-7475 [Print] Turkey
• Vernacular Title: Fonksiyonel ve lateral boyun diseksiyonu sonrasinda spinal aksesuvar sinir fonksiyonlari: Elektromiyografik çalişma.
• PMID: 18187971 (Publication Type: English Abstract, Journal Article)

Topics

• Accessory Nerve (physiology)
• Accessory Nerve Injuries
• Electromyography
• Humans
• Laryngeal Neoplasms (surgery)
• Neck Dissection (adverse effects)
• Neck Muscles (injuries, innervation)
• Postoperative Complications