Safer dissection of spinal accessory nerve from sternocleidomastoid muscle during neck dissection

Abstract

Background: The spinal accessory nerve (SAN) may damage during its dissection from the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle during modified neck dissection type II due to their intimate relation. Routinely, it is dissected from the anterior aspect of the SCM. The aim of this study is to describe and simplify the safer dissection of the SAN from the SCM muscle. Objectives: We proposed a different method of dissection describing it to be posterior approach. Materials and Methods: Posterior dissection of SAN was done as routine. Conclusion: Although more studies are required to depict the superiority of one over another, we found this method to be easier and time-saving approach.