Outcome after neck dissection – a single center cohort study

Abstract Background Postoperative complications and their impact on long-term outcome after neck dissection are not well studied. We wanted to assess postoperative complications and long-term survival in this patient group. Methods A total of 196 procedures were reviewed from the medical records among patients undergoing neck dissection between years 2014-2019. Medical and surgical complications as well as 5 years survival were recorded and evaluated postoperatively. Results A total of 42 (21.4%) surgical and 30 (15.3%) medical complications were recorded. In Cox regression, ASA classification > 2 (OR 2.92 (1.23-3.92) P=0.008) HR 1.97 (1.05-3.70)), pre- or postoperative irradiation (OR 2.21 (1.28 - 3.82) P=0.004. and medical complications (OR 2.45 (1.33 - 4.51) P=0.004) HR 1.92 (1.02-3.61)) were associated to 5-year mortality. Conclusion Medical complications and five-year mortality after neck dissection were associated with patients` chronic medical conditions.