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Background Parapharyngeal lymph node metastasis is very rare in patients with thyroid carcinoma. In this study, we elucidated on the clinical features, diagnosis, surgical treatment, and outcomes for patients with parapharyngeal lymph node metastases from thyroid carcinoma. Methods Patients with thyroid carcinoma who had been subjected to surgery through the transcervical approach at our institution between April 1999 and January 2019 were retrospectively enrolled in this study. Results Parapharyngeal lymph node metastases were successfully resected through the transcervical approach in all the 97 patients. There were 32 treatment-naive patients, while 65 patients had a history of treatment before parapharyngeal lymph node metastases. All 97 cases of parapharyngeal lymph node metastases were detected by enhanced CT scans. Lateral neck lymph nodes metastases were confirmed in 96 patients. Unexpected postoperative neurological side effects were reported in 11 (11%) patients, including dysphagia in 5 (5%) patients, Horner’s syndrome in 2 (2%) patients, glossal deviation in 3 (3%) patients, and asymmetrical mouth in 1 (1%) patient. During the follow-up period, 6 of the 97 patients exhibited parapharyngeal lymph node recurrence (recurrence rate 6.2%). The incidence of distant metastases was 44.3% (43 out of 97). The 5- and 10-year disease-specific survival was 93.4% and 88.9%, respectively. Conclusion Parapharyngeal lymph node metastases should be considered in patients with widespread cervical lymph node metastases. Enhanced CT scan is one of the best methods for diagnosing such metastases. Surgical resection through the transcervical approach is an effective and safe option for patients with parapharyngeal lymph node metastases from thyroid carcinoma. Moreover, parapharyngeal lymph node metastasis is associated with distant metastases that may lead to poor prognosis.

Background Medullary thyroid cancer is a neuroendocrine malignancy that can occur sporadically or as the result of genomic rearranged during transfection mutations. Medullary thyroid cancer has a higher rate of metastasis than well-differentiated thyroid cancer. Lateral neck dissection is often performed, and its prophylactic use is controversial. Methods Single-center, retrospective review (2000–2017) of patients undergoing primary surgical treatment for medullary thyroid cancer who had negative lateral neck imaging preoperatively. Demographics, genetic associations, clinical, and imaging findings were analyzed. Locoregional recurrence, overall recurrence, and overall survival were examined. Results A total of 110 patients were identified, of which 18 underwent prophylactic lateral neck dissection and 92 did not. Age, sex distribution, preoperative calcitonin levels, and follow-up were similar among groups. Overall recurrence was 20% for no prophylactic lateral neck dissection and 39% for prophylactic lateral neck dissection (P = .46). Most recurrences were locoregional recurrence, 7.6% for no prophylactic lateral neck dissection versus 22% for prophylactic lateral neck dissection (P = .08), half of it being to the lateral neck in both groups. A total of 7 patients from the no prophylactic lateral neck dissection group required treatment for recurrences versus 4 patients in prophylactic lateral neck dissection group (P = .57). Overall survival at 5 years was similar, 43% the no prophylactic lateral neck dissection group and 31% for prophylactic lateral neck dissection group (P = .52). Conclusion Lateral neck dissection has no effect in decreasing locoregional or overall recurrences in medullary thyroid cancer and has no effect in overall survival when performed prophylactically at index surgical intervention.

A 29-year-old women presents with primary intrathyroidal papillary thyroid carcinoma (BRAF VE1 positive) with morphologically recognizable metastases to cervical lymph nodes (BRAF VE1 positive) as well as a focus of bland-appearing thyroid follicles within the capsule of a level II lymph node (BRAF VE1 negative). There exist various theories regarding the possible developmental origins of “benign” intranodal thyroid tissue in the lateral neck. While the true nature of the bland follicles may not be definitively resolved in this case, these findings are suggestive that they do not represent metastasis from the main papillary thyroid carcinoma. Additional insight into this unusual phenomenon may be gathered by more specific clonal analysis of these microscopic foci.

Cervical cystic vagal schwannomas sometimes mimic lateral neck cysts because of their extremely rare cystic appearance. Accurate diagnosis of this tumor and preservation of neural function are important because permanent neural injury may occur in patients with cervical schwannomas. During surgery, tumor enucleation of the true capsule of the tumor protects the nerve of origin. In this report, we discuss the case of a 27-year-old woman with cervical cystic vagal schwannoma mimicking a lateral neck cyst, who underwent successful tumor enucleation without suffering permanent neurological deficits. This case report aimed to present the extremely rare cystic changes that may occur in cervical schwannomas, and to improve diagnostic accuracy in relation to this disease. Herein, we discuss the details of enucleation, the methodology of which has not been standardized, and advocate the need for surgery in accordance with the pathogenesis of schwannoma.

Basal cell carcinoma is a malignant epithelial neoplasm of the skin and the most common human skin cancer. It is generally associated with a good prognosis. In this case report, a giant basal cell carcinoma of the nodulo-ulcerative type showing wide ulceration with marginal multiple small nodules, is presented. It was trapezoidal in shape, having dimensions of 7 cm at the greatest basal width, 6 cm vertically with different anterior and posterior margin dimensions, and 5 cm horizontally at the top margin. After wide excision of the lesion including 5–10 mm safety margins, the wound was reconstructed with a local skin flap and split-thickness skin graft. The reconstructed wound healed well without recurrence for 1 year.

Pediatric tumors in the apex of the thoracic cavity are often diagnosed late due to the absence of symptoms. These tumors can be quite large at presentation with involvement of the chest wall, sympathetic chain, spine, and aortic arch. The tumors can also extend into the thoracic inlet and encircle the brachial plexus. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may involve chemotherapy with subsequent surgery or require primary resection. Optimal exposure to resect large apical tumors with thoracic inlet extension is a surgical challenge. To date, several surgical techniques have been described to resect these tumors - including both anterior and posterior thoracic approaches. Each of these techniques can be limited by inadequate exposure of the mass. We describe an alternative approach to surgical resection of these masses that employs an extended sternotomy with a lateral neck incision. This report details two successful resections of large left apical masses with thoracic inlet involvement in children using this technique (Level of evidence 4).

Objective To assess the accuracy of preoperative ultrasound‐guided multilevel fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) cytology and thyroglobulin (Tg) estimation in mapping metastatic levels in the lateral neck, in patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). Methods Patients with PTC clinically metastasizing to the lateral neck who were initially treated at the Peking University Cancer Hospital from June 2018 to September 2020 were included. FNA was performed preoperatively in each suspicious neck level; cytological examination (FNA‐C) and Tg measurement of the needle‐washout fluid (FNA‐Tg) were combined to determine metastasis. FNA‐Tg cutoff value was calculated, and the accuracy of FNA at different levels were evaluated. Results In total, 111 patients underwent 124 lymph node dissections. The best cutoff value of FNA‐Tg for the diagnosis of metastatic level was 1.0 ng/mL. Multilevel FNA showed sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value in predicting single‐level metastasis of 100%, 61.0%, 43.9%, and 100%, respectively. In 64 (51.6%) cases, the involved levels diagnosed by FNA were consistent with that diagnosed by postoperative pathology. Conclusion FNA‐Tg improves the diagnostic performance of FNA‐C in lateral neck lymph node metastases. However, limited accuracy was obtained for preoperative multilevel FNA in predicting the extent of metastasis in the lateral compartment.

To determine whether annual surgeon volume of lateral neck dissections for squamous cell carcinoma is associated with complication rates.Retrospective review.Two US databases spanning 2000 to 2014.Neck dissections for squamous cell carcinoma from the National Inpatient Sample and State Inpatient Databases were analyzed. The primary outcome was any in-hospital complication common to neck dissection. The principal independent variable was surgeon volume. A multivariable logistic generalized estimating equation with a piecewise linear spline for surgeon volume was fit to assess its association with complication.The National Inpatient Sample had 3517 discharges fitting criteria, a median surgeon volume of 12, and an 11.1% complication rate. A 1-unit increase in surgeon volume was associated with a 7% increase in the odds of complication when volume ranged between 4 and 19 (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 1.07; 95% CI, 1.04-1.11) and with a 3% decrease in the odds of complication when volume ranged between 19 and 51 (AOR, 0.97; 95% CI, 0.96-0.99). The State Inpatient Databases had 2876 discharges fitting criteria, a median surgeon volume of 30, and a 13.5% complication rate. Surgeon volume was not associated with complication when27 (AOR, 1.01; 95% CI, 0.99-1.02), but a 5-unit increase in volume was associated with a 7% decrease in the odds of complication with volume ≥27 (AOR, 0.93; 95% CI, 0.88-0.98).Surgeon volume was associated with complications for most volume ranges and with lower odds of complication for high-volume surgeons.

Objective: Omohyoid muscle syndrome (OMS) is a condition that causes a X-shaped lateral neck lump on swallowing, caused by the failure of the central tendon of the omohyoid muscle to restrict movement of the muscle during swallowing. We aim to review the etiology, pathophysiology, diagnostic tests, and management options for this condition. Data Sources: Pubmed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases were searched for all articles and abstracts related to OMS up to 29th July 2020. Review Methods: A systematic review was performed, data extracted from relevant full text articles. Both quantitative data and qualitative data were analyzed. Results: Twenty cases of OMS were reported. Patients presented at a mean age of 36.0. All cases were Asian. There is a 7:3 ratio of males to females. The most common symptom was a transient neck mass. Most cases were managed conservatively with good prognosis. Open or endoscopic transection of the muscle and ultrasound-guided botulinum toxin injection were 3 treatment options, with no recurrence at 4 years, 6 months, and 6 months respectively. Conclusion: OMS could be genetic as all cases were Asian in ethnicity. The deep cervical fascia which usually envelopes the omohyoid muscle may be weakened by stress as 20% of cases had a preceding traumatic event. Real-time ultrasonography establishes the diagnosis, demonstrating the anterolateral displacement of the sternocleidomastoid muscle by a thickened omohyoid muscle during swallowing. Surgical transection can achieve cure, but due to limited studies available, they should be reserved for patients who are extremely bothered. Intramuscular injection of botulinum toxin is an effective alternative, but recurrence is expected.

AIM. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of Ultrasonic Coagulation (UC), Bipolar Energy Sealing System (BESS), Intra Operative Nerve Monitoring (IONM) and surgical experience on the complications of thyroid surgery. METHOD. The data of 1627 patients who underwent thyroid surgery for various indications in our department between 2009 and 2018 were analyzed retrospectively and the effects of different technological devices on complications were investigated. RESULTS. Transient recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) palsy was higher between 2009 and 2013, when IONM was not in routine use (p=0.029). There were no significant differences between two energy devices (UC and BESS) in terms of transient or permanent RLN palsy, bleeding, and transient or permanent hypocalcemia. Multivariate analysis showed that young age (0.006), female gender (0.016), surgery type (p

Masson’s tumor, also known as intravascular papillary endothelial hyperplasia (IPEH), is a rare, benign vascular tumor characterized by the proliferation of endothelial cells with papillary formations. Differential diagnosis between IPEH and angiosarcoma is important because both have microscopic similarity. Herein, we report a rare case of IPEH on the right lateral neck of a 50-year-old female presenting with a neck mass, which was completely removed without complication.

INTRODUCTION In order to avoid large neck scar caused by conventional lateral neck dissection. We have explored and introduced endoscopic lateral neck dissection (IIA, IIB, III, and IV) using a breast approach. Now, we summarized and shared the outcomes of the first 24 cases. MATERIALS AND METHODS All the patients were treated in our institute from January 2017 to May 2018, and followed-up for more than 1 year. The details of patients and this technique have been summarized and analyzed retrospectively. RESULTS A series of first 24 cases were successfully managed with this technique, and no cases were converted to an open approach. Among these 24 patients, levels III + IV dissection had been performed in 6 patients and levels II+III+IV dissection had been performed in 18 patients. The mean age, body mass index, and sex were 39.3±10.5 years old, 24.1±3.5, and 2 male/22 female, respectively. The average operative time of total operation and lateral neck dissection was 238.8±37.2 minutes and 128.8±21.1 minutes, respectively. The mean dissected lateral lymph nodes were 5.9±2.2 (level II) in 18 cases and 15.9±3.9 (levels III+IV) in 24 cases. In addition, with no severe complications to date, such as asphyxia, main nerves injury (cervical plexus, vagus nerve, etc.), and permanent hypoparathyroidism, nor permanent recurrent laryngeal nerve injury, and so on. However, unexpectedly, had some mild and common complications like transient hypocalcemia in 4 cases (16.67%), transient horse 1 case (4.2%), controllable lymphatic leakage in 2 cases (8.3%), and controllable jugular vein injury in 2 cases (8.3%). One year after the operation, 1 case found lung metastasis but no local recurrence. In other 23 patients, no recurrence/metastasis and the average of serum thyroglobulin is 3.2±3.8 ng/mL. CONCLUSIONS This technique can yield adequate oncological dissection for selected patients. Endoscopic thyroidectomy along with lateral neck dissection using a breast approach may provide an option for selected patients who favor avoiding a visible neck incision.

BACKGROUND We report on the feasibility of a novel robotic-assisted extended "Sistrunk" approach (RESA) to the larynx, hypopharynx, and lateral neck lymphatics. METHODS Studies were performed using the da Vinci Xi and SP system on three cadavers comprising of three supraglottic laryngectomies, one partial hypopharyngectomy, and four lateral level II to IV neck dissections. RESULTS In all resections at first a central common working space overlying the hyoid bone was created. The da Vinci Xi system was used with two vestibular and two submental ports for laryngeal/hypopharyngeal resections, and an additional port through a facelift incision for level II to IV neck dissections. The da Vinci SP system was used with only one submental port. CONCLUSIONS We describe herein a novel endoscopic robotic approach to the larynx, hypopharynx, and neck based on the traditional "Sistrunk" procedure. The technique should help improving exposure of the primary lesion and reduce access-related morbidity to the neck.

Although there has been increasing interest in aesthetical approaches for treating patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC), there have been no studies comparing the safety and effectiveness of gasless endoscopic selective lateral neck dissection (SLND) via the anterior chest approach (ACA) with that of conventional open surgery (OPEN) for papillary thyroid carcinoma. A total of 91 patients with PTC who underwent either gasless endoscopic thyroidectomy, central compartment neck dissection and SLND via the ACA or conventional open surgery between Nov. 2008 to Dec. 2018 were included. Primary outcomes and demographic data were compared between the two groups. Thirty-one patients were in the ACA group and 60 were in the OPEN group. The ACA group was younger and had a longer operative time but less intraoperative hemorrhage (P

Transoral endoscopic thyroid surgery via the vestibular approach (TOETVA) has been gradually accepted worldwide due to its scar-free effect on the neck. Even central cervical lymphadenectomy has been performed in some cases of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). However, there are few reports involving lateral neck dissection with TOETVA. In this study, we attempted to perform selective lateral neck dissection (SLND) for PTC via a transoral vestibular approach. This prospective study was conducted from January 2016 to December 2018 in twenty PTC patients with unilateral T1 tumors without capsular invasion and patients with abnormal level III and IV lymph nodes who underwent SLND via a transoral vestibular approach. Endoscopic surgery was successfully accomplished in all 20 PTC patients. The mean age was 29.2 ± 5.5 (20–41) years. The mean operation time was 146.0 ± 18.7 (114–193) min. The average postoperative hospital stay was 6.8 ± 1.3 (5–10) days. The mean number of removed nodes was 7.4 ± 2.5 (4–12) in the central neck and 10.9 ± 2.8 (6–16) in the lateral neck, and the positive yield amounts were 2.0 ± 1.2 (0–4) and 2.7 ± 1.9 (0–6), respectively. No major complications occurred except for 1 case of transient unilateral recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy and two cases of effusion in the operative area. No evidence of persistent or recurrent disease was observed in these patients during a mean follow-up of 24.3 ± 9.1 (6–36) months. The cosmetic results and protection of personal privacy of this procedure were excellent. Endoscopic SLND via the transoral vestibular approach is feasible, safe, and effective for selected PTCs. A multicenter large comparative study is necessary.

Lateral neck ectopic thyroid tissue remains a rare entity that can be affected by any lesion involving the gland. The origin of lateral neck ectopic thyroid carcinomas still debated between a metastatic disease secondary to thyroid primary tumor and primary malignancy on the ectopic tissue. Anyway, it should indicate an exploration of the gland. We report the case of a 36 years old female with one year history of hyperthyroidism who was admitted for multinodular grade II goiter with a firm mass in the left level II of the lateral neck. The thyroid scintigraphy demonstrated multiple functioning nodules corresponding to toxic multinodular goiter; in addition to two cold hypofunctional nodules. The cervical ultrasound showed a voluminous multinodular goiter classified as EU TIRADS 5. The surgical procedure exposed a multinodular mass, lateral to the internal jugular vein, with the appearance and structure of the thyroid gland and no connection to it. The thyroid gland was exposed next through a collar incision. Each mass was dissected and removed individually. The histopathology examination of the thyroid gland found papillary carcinoma extracapsular extension. The pathology results of the other mass reported multiple colloid nodules with cystic component, papillary in appearance, with the same cancer proliferation, compatible with ectopic thyroid tissue with papillary carcinoma. No lymph node tissue was found. The patient was sent for complementary RAItherapy. We report a rare case of lateral neck ectopic thyroid papillary carcinoma that supplements and supports the lacking literature data concerning the management of this rare entity., Highlights • Lateral neck ectopic thyroid tissue is a rare entity that can possibly be affected by any lesion involving the gland. • Metastasis from thyroid primary carcinoma are difficult to distinguish from primary malignancy of the ectopic tissues. • The discovery of papillary carcinoma on ectopic thyroid tissue should indicate an exploration of the gland.

Background Impaction of foreign body is a common condition presented to ear, nose, and throat department among Asian population. The commonest foreign body seen among this population has been documented as fish bone. Fish bone can migrate to lateral neck space or related organs around the neck and chest. By presenting this case report, we aim to emphasize the importance of taking proper history and make clinicians aware of the possibility of a fish bone migrating into different spaces. This will help to prevent diagnosis delay leading to complications due to migrated fish bone. Case presentation A 50-year-old female Sinhalese patient presented to ear, nose, and throat department with right-sided neck pain for 2 days, who had a history of suspected fish bone impaction a few days ago that subsided without any investigations or treatments. She did not have any symptoms related to throat, and neck examination showed mild swelling and tenderness. Computer tomography revealed a migrated fish bone into the lateral neck close to carotid artery, and the fish bone was removed by neck exploration under general anesthesia without any complications. Conclusion In conclusion, migrated fish bone should be suspected if patient is having persistent symptoms mainly in the neck without having difficulty swallowing and who gives a history of fish bone impaction and having negative laryngoscopic examination. Proper history taking is very important in the assessment of these patients to prevent misdiagnosis of the condition. Clinicians should aware that migrated fish bones are not uncommon and that early suspicion can prevent later diagnosis and complications.

The extent of neck dissection in papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) patients with lateral neck metastasis is controversial. This work aims to screen the patients suitable for superselective neck dissections including only levels III-IV.Prospective observational cohort study.The study was conducted in a high-volume tertiary care setting.A total of 134 consecutive previously untreated PTC patients with lateral neck metastases and subjected to 154 therapeutic lateral neck dissections (including levels II, III, IV, and VB) between June 2018 and March 2021 were enrolled. Fine-needle aspiration was performed preoperatively at each suspicious neck level. Clinical predictors were analyzed for occult lymph node metastases at levels II and VB.As a result, 44.8% and 5.8% of neck specimens exhibited metastatic lymph nodes at levels II and VB. In addition, univariate and multivariate analyses showed that the primary tumor in the ipsilateral thyroid upper lobe (A superselective lateral neck dissection including levels III to IV may be considered in patients with PTC when the preoperative evaluation identifies a single lymph node metastasis located at levels III to IV and the primary tumor is not in the upper lobe of the ipsilateral thyroid.

Introduction Cavernous hemangioma is a venous malformation that occurs throughout the entire body but is rarely localized in internal jugular vein, to the best of our knowledge our case is the first case reported in the literature. Case report We report a case of internal jugular vein cavernous hemangioma in a 62-year-old woman and review the literature concerning the clinical features, radiological appearance, histopathological findings and treatment options. Discussion Internal jugular vein cavernous hemangioma, is a very rare tumor composed of large dilated blood vessels and containing large blood-filled spaces. It can occur as lateral neck mass, in our case neither the scanner nor the ultrasound made the diagnosis. Given the rarity of the condition, therapeutic strategies remain unclear. However, according to the published literature, complete resection is considered the most successful and effective treatment., Highlights • Cavernous hemangioma is a venous malformation that occurs throughout the entire body. • Rarely localized in internal jugular vein. • To the best of our knowledge our case is the first case reported in the literature.

Background Nonsurgical skin-tightening procedures are increasing in popularity, as patients seek aesthetic interventions that are safe with minimal downtime. Objective This study was designed to provide precise data on the depth of the superficial fascia-the structure of action-of the face and neck. Methods One hundred fifty Caucasian individuals (75 men and 75 women) were investigated with a balanced distribution of age (n = 30 per decade: 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, and 60-69 years) and body mass index (BMI) (n = 50 per group: BMI ≤ 24.9 kg/m, BMI between 25.0 and 29.9 kg/m, and BMI ≥ 30 kg/m). The distance between skin surface and the superficial fascia was measured through ultrasound in the buccal region, premasseteric region, and lateral neck. Results The mean distance between skin surface and superficial fascia was for the buccal region 4.82 ± 0.9 mm, range (2.60-6.90); for the premasseteric region 4.25 ± 0.6 mm, range (2.60-5.80); and for the lateral neck 3.71 ± 0.5 mm, range (2.0-5.0). The depth of the superficial fascia increased with increasing BMI, whereas it decreased with advanced age. Conclusion Knowing the precise depth of the superficial fascia for nonsurgical skin-tightening procedures will guide practitioners toward safer and more effective outcomes.

BackgroundA post-auricular cutaneous mastoid fistula is a rare condition that can occur following radical mastoid surgery, chronic suppurative otitis media or spontaneous exteriorisation of cholesteatoma from the mastoid through the post-auricular skin surface. Management of a post-auricular cutaneous mastoid fistula can be challenging for the surgeon.ObjectiveThis paper describes a surgical refinement for post-auricular cutaneous mastoid fistula closure, involving a fibro-muscular-periosteal flap to cover the mastoid cavity, combined with a bilobed flap from the mastoid and lateral neck regions for skin closure.Method and resultsA case of a post-auricular cutaneous mastoid fistula developed after revision tympanoplasty for a cholesteatoma. The condition was successfully treated with the presented technique. Pre- and post-operative photographs are provided for demonstration.ConclusionThe fibro-muscular-periosteal flap combined with a bilobed flap from the mastoid and lateral neck regions, in our view, can be considered a valid option for post-auricular cutaneous mastoid fistula closure.

Objective The survival benefit of prophylactic lateral neck dissection in medullary thyroid carcinomas remains unclear; thus, recent clinical guidelines have deferred the recommendation of lateral neck dissection. This review is to assess the role of lateral neck dissection in treatment of clinically overt medullary thyroid carcinoma. Methods A meta-analysis was performed on full-text publications written in English sourced using Embase and Medline databases. Publications with data regarding lateral neck dissection and clinical outcome were included. Results The frequently performed central neck dissection was significantly correlated with a higher biological cure rate (p = 0.047) and lower structural recurrence rate (p = 0.002). The frequency of ipsilateral lateral neck dissection was significantly negatively correlated with the rate of died of disease (p = 0.017). Conclusion The frequency of lateral neck dissections and rate of died of disease had a reverse correlation suggesting that prophylactic lateral neck dissection has a significant impact on survival.

Background Endoscopic thyroidectomy is popular among patients with cosmetic requirements. However, when lateral neck dissection (LND) is required, endoscopic surgery may be challenging. Therefore, we introduced needle-assisted endoscopic technique to achieve endoscopic LND procedure and evaluated its safety and feasibility in the present study. Methods Medical records of 37 patients who underwent needle-assisted endoscopic thyroidectomy with LND were retrospectively reviewed. Results All of 37 patients had excellent cosmetic outcomes. The mean operative time was 338.2 ± 58.74 minutes. Mean number of lymph nodes retrieved in the lateral was 33.5 ± 11.69 and 15.9 ± 7.51 in the central neck. The rates of transient and permanent hypocalcemia were 32.4% and 2.7% and the rates of transient and permanent recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy were 8.1% and 0%, respectively. Conclusions Needle-assisted endoscopic thyroidectomy with lateral neck dissection shows potential feasibility but further study is needed to better characterize its safety and applicability.

BACKGROUND There is a paucity of data regarding optimal treatment options and outcomes for recurrent disease after lateral neck dissection in patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma. METHODS Retrospective review of patients who underwent either percutaneous ethanol injection or surgery for first-time ipsilateral recurrences after ipsilateral lateral neck dissection for papillary thyroid carcinoma was performed. RESULTS Follow-up data were available for 54 patients with recurrences in 57 lateral necks treated by either percutaneous ethanol injection (n = 32) or surgery (n = 25). Tumor burden at the time of lateral neck recurrence differed between the groups including the largest lymph node diameter (mean: 13 mm vs 18 mm, P < .01) and the mean number of metastatic lymph nodes identified on ultrasound (1.3 vs 1.9, P = .04). Each modality alone achieved similar estimated rates of disease control at 36 months (75% for percutaneous ethanol injection and 74% for surgery, P = .8) with similar number of reinterventions (1.8 for percutaneous ethanol injection, 1.6 for surgery, P = .6). CONCLUSIONS Both ethanol ablation and surgery can achieve disease control in the majority of patients with recurrences after ipsilateral lateral neck dissection for papillary thyroid carcinoma. Ethanol ablation, when used for treatment of a single small lymph node, can result in outcomes that are similar to reoperative surgery for larger and multiple lymph nodes.

Introduction Plexiform cervical neurofibromas are benign neoplasm, extremely rare, difficult to diagnose and to manage. Only some cases have been reported in the literature. Case presentation We report the case of a 60-year-old man admitted for a lateral neck mass, for which the surgical indication was the increase in volume of this mass, as well as the aesthetical impairment, the surgical exploration found the tumor attached to the cervical plexus. The excision of the mass was performed without damaging nerve. The pathological study was in favor of a plexiform neurofibroma. Discussion Even though Plexiform cervical neurofibroma are extremely rare, and their diagnosis are not often primary evoked in front of any growing mass of this region, the surgeon must keep in mind the existence of these neoplasms as a differential diagnosis of a neck tumor. Conclusion Surgery remains the gold standard in the treatment of these locally invasive tumors. It is essential that the surgeon keep in mind the possibility of these tumors as a differential diagnosis of a neck tumor., Highlights • Plexiform cervical neurofibromas are benign neoplasm, extremely rare. • Difficult to diagnose and to manage. • Their symptomatology is variable and depends on their topography. • The clinical aspect is not specific, and the diagnosis is confirmed after a biopsy with anatomopathological examination. • Surgery remains the gold standard in the treatment of these locally invasive tumors.

Venous aneurysm of the head and neck is a rare clinical entity due to its asymptomatic nature and tendency of clinicians to report only surgical results. Whereas the primary aneurysm of internal jugular vein (IJV) in children is being increasingly recognized, secondary aneurysms of veins of the head and neck in adults, notably the external jugular vein (EJV) aneurysm remains only in anecdotal case reports. We present the case of a 63-year-old previously healthy woman who presented with a gradually progressive right lateral neck swelling over the last 18 months. Following the evaluation, she was diagnosed as a case of isolated spontaneous right-sided EJV aneurysm and was managed by surgical excision of the aneurysm.

BACKGROUND: Although therapeutic lateral neck dissection (LND) may be indicated in thyroid carcinoma, the cervical lymph node groups IIA and IIB, according to Robbins classification, are often not removed. The aim of our study was to determine the relevance of complete comprehensive LND in thyroid carcinoma. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective study between January 2011 and August 2018 in a university teaching hospital. Histopathological analysis of LND performed during total thyroidectomy in thyroid carcinoma was reviewed according to lymph node level. To demonstrate that neck dissection of upper groups, IIA/IIB, is necessary when therapeutic LND is indicated in thyroid carcinoma, we compared histopathological involvement in complete comprehensive LND of the upper groups IIA/IIB to the lower groups III/IV/V. RESULTS: A total of 30 LND (24 patients) were suitable for analysis. Analysis by neck side revealed that comprehensive LND dissection samples were negative in 3 cases, and positive in 27. In those 27 positive LND, 15 demonstrated involvement of the groups IIA/IIB, and 12 were positive for involvement of the III/IV/V groups only. The combined presence of positive IIA/IIB and positive III/IV/V was observed in 15 of the 27 neck sides. There was no positive IIA/IIB without positive involvement of III/IV/V groups. CONCLUSIONS: The high rate of positive cervical lymph nodes in the upper groups IIA/IIB supports complete comprehensive LND rather than selective III/IV/V LND in thyroid carcinoma surgery. However, impact on survival and whether postoperative radioactive iodine treatment may be modulated remain to be studied.

Chyle leak is a well-known complication that can occur after a thyroidectomy with neck dissection; however, it rarely occurs after thyroidectomy alone. Here, we report a case of chyle leak following a left hemithyroidectomy for a benign solitary thyroid nodule. Based on the literature search, this is only the second reported case of a chyle leak after a simple hemithyroidectomy without any central or lateral neck dissection. Amongst the possible causes, we hypothesize that the use of intraoperative nerve monitor may be a contributing factor. Treatment options are explored and the patient was treated successfully with nonoperative management.

To determine the relationship between age and rate of lymph node metastasis, nodal burden of disease, as well as rate of lateral neck disease in papillary thyroid cancer, especially in patients aged30 years.Population-based cross-sectional study.Population-based cancer database.Data were extracted from the SEER 18 database (Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results) of the National Cancer Institute. The study cohort included 59,330 patients diagnosed with papillary thyroid cancer between 1988 and 2015. Patients aged 0 to 10 years, 11 to 20 years, and 21 to 30 years old were compared with those30 years. All analyses were adjusted for sex, race, and T classification.The overall rate of lymph node metastasis was 26.11%, which increased with decreasing age. Adjusted odds ratios of lymph node metastasis were 7.19 (95% CI, 3.76-13.75) for the 0- to 10-year-old group, 3.45 (95% CI, 3.08-3.87) for the 11- to 20-year-old group, and 2.28 (95% CI, 2.15-2.41) for the 21- to 30-year-old group, relative to the group30 years old. Decreased age was also associated with increased total positive nodes, increased lymph node ratio, and increased risk of lateral neck disease.Pediatric and early young adult patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma have a greater risk of lymph node metastasis, greater burden of nodal disease, and a greater risk of lateral neck metastases.

Background Papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) usually metastasizes via lymphatic channels in a sequential fashion, first to the central compartment, followed by the lateral neck. PTC patients diagnosed with lateral neck disease (N1b) without proof for central involvement traditionally undergo prophylactic central neck dissection (pCND). However, substantial evidence on outcomes to support this approach is lacking. Materials and methods We conducted a dual center retrospective study to compare the rate of central neck recurrence between N1b PTC patients undergoing pCND and those spared pCND. All patients diagnosed with N1b PTC who underwent total thyroidectomy and lateral neck dissections with or without pCND between January 1998 and December 2015 were included in this study. The rates of central neck recurrences were compared between the groups. Results The 111 patients who met the inclusion criteria were 44 females (39.6%) and 67 males (60.4%), with a mean age of 50.2 ± 17.7 years, and a mean follow-up of 10.2 ± 5.3 years. Sixty patients (54.1%) underwent a pCND and 51 patients (45.9%) did not (non-pCND). During follow-up, 18 patients (16.2%) had level VI recurrences, 13 in the pCND group and 5 in the non-pCND group. Cox-regression models with propensity scoring did not reveal any inclination or an advantage for performing pCND. Conclusion The present study demonstrated no advantage in performing pCND to prevent central neck recurrence among PTC patients with lateral neck involvement only. These findings question the need for pCND in patients without clinical evidence of central neck disease.

Objective To determine whether the use of fibrin sealant tissue adhesives during lateral neck dissections is associated with a change in postoperative outcomes. Study Design Retrospective cohort. Setting Institutionally affiliated tertiary care center. Methods Various demographic, disease, and surgical data were collected for patients who underwent lateral neck dissections. Univariate regression analysis was performed with the following outcomes: total drain output and duration of drain placement, as well as incidence of postoperative infection, hematoma, seroma, chyle leak, and salivary leak. Results A total of 133 patients underwent lateral neck dissections. Fibrin sealant was used in 35% of cases (n = 46). Its use was not associated with differences in total drain output ( P = .77) or the number of days that the drains were in place ( P = .83). On secondary analysis, the use of fibrin sealant was not associated with a difference in postoperative incidence of hematoma ( P = .65), seroma ( P = .68), chyle leak ( P = .42), or salivary leak ( P = .73). These results were consistent when stratified by the presence of intraoperative complications. Its use accompanied an average cost of $674 per case. Conclusions Fibrin sealant use during lateral neck dissections was not associated with a reduction in drain output or days that the drains remained in situ. Although the current study was limited by sample size, fibrin sealant use was not associated with a decreased risk of postoperative adverse events. The evidence in this report suggests that the routine use of these products adds cost without clear benefit.

Differentiated thyroid carcinoma with lateral neck lymph node metastasis requires aggressive operative intervention, including lateral neck dissection. Although several robotic approaches have made precise surgery for thyroid cancer possible, few centers have expanded the technique for application to lateral neck dissections. This study aimed to demonstrate the technical feasibility, cosmetic effectiveness, and safety of robotic transaxillary lateral neck dissection (RTLND) using the da Vinci system. From January 2008 to July 2019, 500 patients diagnosed with thyroid cancer with lateral neck node metastasis underwent RTLND. The clinicopathologic characteristics and surgical outcomes were retrospectively reviewed. All operations were performed successfully without open conversion. As the primary operation for thyroid cancer, 476 (95.2%) patients underwent unilateral or bilateral RTLND, including robotic total thyroidectomy. The remaining 24 patients (4.8%), all of whom had a recurrence, also underwent RTLND with additional procedures, if needed. The mean operation time for the 500 operations was 293.71 ± 67.22 min. Only five cases had recurrence and required further treatment. RTLND is technically feasible and safe through the precise manipulation of robotic instruments. While this method is thorough and provides safe and effective surgical outcomes, it also offers the additional advantage of being minimally invasive.

Background Cervical abscesses frequently occurred in pediatric patients. Surgical drainage is currently recommended in the cases not responding to medical therapy. Needle aspiration may represent a simple, effective and minimally invasive treatment for acute neck suppuration in selected cases. Objective To evaluate the effectiveness of needle aspiration in the treatment of cervical abscesses in pediatric age as an alternative to surgical drainage. Methods From November 2013 to November 2019, at the ENT Department of the “Bambino Gesu" Pediatric Hospital, Rome, we treated 47 children with cervical abscess by performing aspiration with a 19 G needle in wakefulness after applying local anesthetic. Parenteral antibiotic treatment was associated with all patients both before and after treatment. Results Complete regression of the abscess occurred in 46 children with no evidence of recurrence in the follow-up period. Surgical drainage was required in only one patient due to the lack of resolution of the abscess episode. No complications such as hematomas or hypertrophic scars were found in any patient. Conclusions Our results confirm the effectiveness of needle aspiration in the treatment of cervical abscesses in children as an alternative to surgical drainage.

Objective Nasogastric tube (NGT) insertion in anesthetized and intubated patients can be challenging, even for experienced anesthesiologists. Various techniques have been proposed to facilitate NGT insertion in these patients. This study aimed to compare the success rate and time required for NGT insertion between GlideScope™ visualization and neck flexion, with lateral neck pressure techniques. Material and methods This randomized clinical trial was performed at a teaching hospital on 86 adult patients undergoing abdominal surgery, under relaxant general anesthesia, who required intraoperative NGT insertion. The patients were randomized into two groups, the GlideScope™ group (group G) and the neck flexion with lateral neck pressure group (group F). The success rate of the first and second attempts, duration of insertion, and complications were recorded. Results The total success rate was 79.1% in group G, compared with 76.7% in group F (P = 1). The median time required for NGT insertion was significantly longer in group G, for both first and second attempts (97 vs 42 s P P = 0.015), respectively. Complications were reported in 23 patients (53.5%) in group G and 13 patients (30.2%) in group F. Bleeding and kinking were the most common complications for both techniques. Conclusion Using GlideScope™ visualization to facilitate NGT insertion was comparable to neck flexion with lateral neck pressure technique, in the degree of success rates of insertion. Although complications were not statistically significant between groups, neck flexion with lateral neck pressure technique was significantly less time-consuming for both first and second attempts. Trial registration Retrospectively registered: Thai Clinical Trial Registry (TCTR)20171229003. Registered on 19 December 2017

Summary:. Median and lateral neck areas are quite challenging to improve. Three-dimensional cryolipolysis is a noninvasive technique for localized fat reduction. We investigated the efficacy and safety of the technique when applied to these areas. A prospective study of patients treated with one session of 3-dimensional (3D) cryolipolysis is performed. Clinical outcomes are assessed using caliper measurements, patient surveys, and independent, blinded plastic surgeons’ photographic evaluation. The studies are conducted using a commercially available noninvasive medical device for 3D cryolipolysis. All patients received gentle massage of the treated areas for 3 minutes, and the final follow-up is after 3 months. Thirty-nine patients are enrolled in our study from June 2018 to December 2018. All 39 subjects received treatment on at least one intended area (median, right, and left lateral neck). Comparison of the pre- and posttreatment caliper measurements demonstrated a significant reduction of the treated areas at 3 months. Posttreatment, 82.05% of patients marked the results of fat reduction as exceptional or very improved, 12.82% as improved, 5.13% as no result, and 0% as worse. Improved patients and the blinded plastic surgeons noticed at these patients’ groups a bonus tightening effect. No serious adverse reactions are observed; thus, 3D cryolipolysis considered as a safe and effective noninvasive localized fat reduction technique with an extra, almost regularly observed, tightening effect.

We aimed to evaluate risk factors for local recurrence following lateral neck dissection (LND) for papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). Two hundred and nine patients who underwent therapeutic primary or reoperative LND for PTC were included. One hundred eighty-one patients underwent primary LND at our Institution, the remaining 28 were referred for recurrence following LND outside the Institution. Comparing patients who required reoperation for recurrent lateral neck disease with those who did not recur, no significant difference was found concerning sex, tumor size, multifocal disease, extracapsular invasion, histological variant, pT stage (P = NS). At univariate analysis, age, mean number of removed lateral neck nodes at first operation, the extent of initial LND and surgery performed outside the Institution were risk factors for recurrence (P

Cutaneous anesthesia in early postoperative period is common after neck dissection even if the cervical nerve (CN) rootlets are preserved. The aim of this study was to evaluate if the preservation of the terminal branches of CNs using sub-sternocleidomastoid (SCM) approach combined with medially placed skin incision can prevent early postoperative anesthesia.A retrospective chart review was performed on 129 neck dissections in 87 head and neck cancer patients.The early postoperative sensory preservation rates for the ear tab, submandibular, lateral neck, and sub-clavicular areas of CN rootlet-preserved necks (n = 86) were 75.6%, 20.9%, 74.4%, and 86.0%, respectively, compared with 37.2%, 2.3%, 2.3%, and 4.7%, respectively, in CN rootlet-resected necks (n = 43). In CN rootlet-preserved necks, the sub-SCM approach (n = 54) showed 81.5%, 27.8%, 92.6%, and 94.4% preservation rates, respectively, compared with 65.6%, 9.4%, 43.8%, and 71.9%, respectively, using the conventional subplatysmal approach (n = 32). The rates were significantly better in the submandibular, lateral neck, and sub-clavicular areas after sub-SCM approach.Preservation of CN rootlets is a required element for sensory preservation in neck dissection. The sub-SCM approach can effectively prevent early postoperative cutaneous anesthesia following CN-preserving neck dissection.

Objective Cancers found in the resected branchial cleft cyst are rare clinically but usually impose substantive diagnostic and treatment challenges for clinicians. Methods A 31-year-old man presented with a lateral neck mass that was suspected to be an inflammatory branchial cleft cyst. After excision, the pathologic specimen revealed a benign cystic appearance with a focus of undifferentiated carcinoma. Serologic tests for Epstein–Barr virus were negative. A positron emission tomography scan and upper aerodigestive tract endoscopies were negative for any other suspicious lesion. Results The patient underwent random biopsies of the nasopharynx, tongue base, and hypopharynx and bil tonsillectomy. Pathologic examination of the nasopharyngeal biopsies showed the presence of undifferentiated carcinoma. The cancerous part of the branchial cleft cyst and this nasopharyngeal specimen were positive for the latent membrane protein-1 and EBV-encoded RNAs of Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) and confirmed our diagnosis. Conclusion This is the first report of a NPC metastasizing to a branchial cleft cyst. Molecular diagnostic techniques facilitate the definite diagnosis that enabled us to refine treatment plans and offered the patient a favorable outcome.

Recurrent well-differentiated thyroid cancer is an important problem and incidence is on the rise. Recurrence preferentially involves lymph nodes of the central and lateral neck. Detection and surveillance of such disease is commonly performed via serum thyroglobulin and high-frequency neck ultrasonography. Management options include: active surveillance, local ablative techniques, RAI, external beam radiotherapy, and surgery. The gold standard of care is surgical removal in the form of comprehensive neck dissection. Although revision surgery in the neck does carry increased risk, the use of well-established techniques can decrease this risk and allow surgeons to safely and effectively treat patients with recurrent neck disease.

Background Ischemic heart disease manifests as pain on the left side, in the retrosternal or the precordial region, with subsequent radiation to the ipsilateral shoulder, face, and cervical region. Less frequently, it may manifest solely as face pain. Case Description A 57-year-old man sought care at the Massachusetts General Hospital Oral and Maxillofacial Pain Center with a symptom of pain in the mandibular left posterior region, in the medial aspect of the ipsilateral eye, and in the left side of the neck. The pain had started approximately 8 months previously as a mild, constant dull ache in the mandibular left posterior region. However, it became severe in intensity and sharp in quality and radiated toward the medical aspect of the ipsilateral eye and lateral neck region after intense physical activity. Results from comprehensive diagnostic evaluation and a series of diagnostic tests suggested that the facial pain was associated with cardiovascular disease. There was complete resolution of pain symptoms after the patient received appropriate pharmacotherapy. Practical Implications Association of pain with exercise and termination of pain with rest and the presence of risk factors for cardiovascular disease necessitate a thorough investigation of rare and fatal causes of facial pain.

Background Neck dissection is considered the treatment of choice in patients with lateral neck metastases from well-differentiated thyroid cancer. Methods A multicenter, retrospective review of patients who underwent therapeutic lateral neck dissection for well-differentiated thyroid carcinoma was carried out. Results The study included a total of 405 lateral neck dissections performed in 352 patients; 197 women (56%) and 155 men (44%). When considering ipsilateral neck metastases, levels IIa, IIb, III, IV, Va, Vb, and V (not otherwise specified) were involved in 42%, 6%, 73%, 67%, 11%, 31%, and 35% of cases, respectively. Five-year and 10-year overall survival (OS) were 93% and 81%, respectively. Age >55 years, pathologic T (pT)4 category, tumor diameter >4 cm, aggressive variants of well-differentiated thyroid carcinoma, endovascular invasion, and number of positive nodes >5 turned out to be the most important prognostic factors. Conclusion Neck dissection is a valid treatment option in the presence of neck metastasis from well-differentiated thyroid carcinoma. Levels IIa, III, IV, and Vb should always be removed.