Endoscopic supraomohyoid neck dissection via a retroauricular or modified facelift approach: preliminary results.

BACKGROUND: Based on our previous experiences with endoscopic or robotic neck surgery utilizing the retroauricular (RA) or modified facelift (MFL) approach, we realized the value of verifying the feasibility of endoscopic supraomohyoid neck dissection (SOND). Therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the potential role of endoscopic SOND.

METHODS: Six patients who underwent elective endoscopic SOND of the ipsilateral neck for biopsy proven head and neck cancer from January 2011 to February 2012 were analyzed.

RESULTS: All endoscopic operations via RA or MFL were successfully performed without any significant intraoperative complications or conversion to open surgery. Based on patient-reported outcome questionnaires, all patients were satisfied with the cosmetic surgical outcomes.

CONCLUSION: Endoscopic selective neck dissection via an RA or an MFL approach is technically feasible and safe with satisfactory cosmetic results for patients with clinically node-negative early-stage head and neck cancer.