Scholarly Article
Complications of Neck Dissection in Head and Neck Cancer: A 5-Year Retrospective Analysis of Incidence and Risk Factors at a Libyan Tertiary Center
Ayad Alkhalifi, Nagia Bengharbia, Mustafa Zaneen, Nagah Majdoub
2025-06-29 · AlQalam Journal of Medical and Applied Sciences · University of Tripoli Alahlia
Abstract
Neck dissection is integral to head and neck cancer management but carries significant morbidity, particularly in resource-limited settings where advanced presentations prevail. This study analyzes complication rates and risk factors following neck dissection at a Libyan tertiary center to guide context-specific surgical protocols. A 5-year retrospective analysis of 37 patients undergoing neck dissection (2017-2021) was conducted. Complications were classified by type, timing, and Clavien-Dindo severity. Multivariate regression identified risk factors. The cohort (mean age 56.2±10 years; 59.5% male) demonstrated a 40.5% complication rate, with infections (18.9%) and nerve injuries (16.2%) predominating. Modified radical neck dissection (MRND) had the highest infection rate (33.3% vs. 8.3% for selective dissection, p=0.031). Independent risk factors included advanced age (OR=2.3, 95%CI:1.2-4.4) and MRND/radical procedures (OR=3.5, 95% CI:1.3-9.2). Complication rates exceed global benchmarks, underscoring the need for targeted interventions: infection control in MRND, nerve preservation training, and preoperative optimization for elderly patients.
Keywords
Neck Dissection, Oral Carcinoma, Complications.
Citation Details
AlQalam Journal of Medical and Applied Sciences, Vol. 8, No. 2, pp. 1202-1208