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ANZ Journal of Surgery Mar 2023Neck dissection is a commonly performed procedure for oncologic control of head and neck malignancy. With contemporary modified radical and selective neck dissections,... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Neck dissection is a commonly performed procedure for oncologic control of head and neck malignancy. With contemporary modified radical and selective neck dissections, haematoma, wound infection, tissue necrosis, chyle leak and injury involving the marginal mandibular, hypoglossal, vagus or accessory nerves are commonly described complications. Although the phrenic nerve courses within the surgical planes explored during a neck dissection and has a vital function in innervating the diaphragm, few studies have been performed to investigate the exact incidence of post-operative phrenic nerve paresis. This study aims to review the literature as to the rate of phrenic nerve injury following neck dissection.
METHODS
A systematic literature review was conducted from 2000 to 2022 including studies reporting on phrenic nerve paresis following neck dissection.
RESULTS
In total, 11 studies were included. The reported rate of immediate post-operative phrenic nerve paresis ranged from 0% to 5.3%, with an average rate of 0.613% (12/1959). The reported rate of phrenic nerve paresis at follow-up (1 month-127 months) ranged from 0% to 4.7%, with an average rate of 1.035% (5/483). There were no cases of bilateral phrenic nerve paresis reported in this period.
CONCLUSIONS
Phrenic nerve paresis is an uncommon complication following neck dissection, often asymptomatic and potentially underreported. Bilateral phrenic nerve paresis is exceedingly rare. Injury can be avoided by staying superficial to the prevertebral fascia when dissecting around the anterior scalene muscle. Routine phrenic nerve integrity monitoring is not commonly utilized but may aid intra-operative phrenic nerve identification or confirmation of function.
Topics: Humans; Phrenic Nerve; Neck Dissection; Head and Neck Neoplasms; Paresis
PubMed: 36792555
DOI: 10.1111/ans.18322 -
Clinical Anatomy (New York, N.Y.) Jan 2024This study aimed to investigate the anatomy of the spinal accessory nerve (SAN) in the posterior cervical triangle, especially in relation to adjacent anatomical... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
This study aimed to investigate the anatomy of the spinal accessory nerve (SAN) in the posterior cervical triangle, especially in relation to adjacent anatomical landmarks, along with a systematic review of the current literature with a meta-analysis of the data. Overall, 22 cadaveric and three prospective intraoperative studies, with a total of 1346 heminecks, were included in the analysis. The major landmarks relevant to the entry of the SAN at the posterior border of the SCM muscle (PBSCM) were found to be the mastoid apex, the great auricular point (GAP), the nerve point (NP), and the point where the PBSCM meets the upper border of the clavicle. The SAN was reported to enter the posterior cervical triangle above GAP in 100% of cases and above NP in most cases (97.5%). The mean length of the SAN along its course from the entry point to its exit point from the posterior triangle of the neck was 4.07 ± 1.13 cm. The SAN mainly gave off 1 or 2 branches (32.5% and 31%, respectively) and received either no branches or one branch in most cases (58% and 23%, respectively) from the cervical plexus during its course in the posterior cervical triangle. The major landmarks relevant to the entry of the SAN at the anterior border of the TPZ muscle (ABTPZ) were found to be the point where the ABTPZ meets the upper border of the clavicle and the midpoint of the clavicle, along with the mastoid apex, the acromion, and the transverse distance of the SAN exit point to the PBSCM. The results of the present meta-analysis will be helpful to surgeons operating in the posterior cervical triangle, aiding the avoidance of the iatrogenic injury of the SAN.
Topics: Humans; Accessory Nerve; Prospective Studies; Cadaver; Neck; Neck Muscles
PubMed: 37767816
DOI: 10.1002/ca.24119 -
PloS One 2015The course and branches of the median nerve (MN) in the wrist vary widely among the population. Due to significant differences in the reported prevalence of such... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE
The course and branches of the median nerve (MN) in the wrist vary widely among the population. Due to significant differences in the reported prevalence of such variations, extensive knowledge on the anatomy of the MN is essential to avoid iatrogenic nerve injury. Our aim was to determine the prevalence rates of anatomical variations of the MN in the carpal tunnel and the most common course patterns and variations in its thenar motor branch (TMB).
STUDY DESIGN
A systematic search of all major databases was performed to identify articles that studied the prevalence of MN variations in the carpal tunnel and the TMB. No date or language restrictions were set. Extracted data was classified according to Lanz's classification system: variations in the course of the single TMB--extraligamentous, subligamentous, and transligamentous (type 1); accessory branches of the MN at the distal carpal tunnel (type 2); high division of the MN (type 3); and the MN and its accessory branches proximal to the carpal tunnel (type 4). Pooled prevalence rates were calculated using MetaXL 2.0.
RESULTS
Thirty-one studies (n = 3918 hands) were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence rates of the extraligamentous, subligamentous, and transligamentous courses were 75.2% (95%CI:55.4%-84.7%), 13.5% (95%CI:3.6%-25.7%), and 11.3% (95%CI:2.4%-23.0%), respectively. The prevalence of Lanz group 2, 3, and 4 were 4.6% (95%CI:1.6%-9.1%), 2.6% (95%CI:0.1%-2.8%), and 2.3% (95%CI:0.3%-5.6%), respectively. Ulnar side of branching of the TMB was found in 2.1% (95%CI:0.9%-3.6%) of hands. The prevalence of hypertrophic thenar muscles over the transverse carpal ligament was 18.2% (95%CI:6.8%-33.0%). A transligamentous course of the TMB was more commonly found in hands with hypertrophic thenar muscles (23.4%, 95%CI:5.0%-43.4%) compared to those without hypertrophic musculature (1.7%, 95%CI:0%-100%). In four studies (n = 423 hands), identical bilateral course of the TMB was found in 72.3% (95%CI:58.4%-84.4%) of patients.
CONCLUSIONS
Anatomical variations in the course of the TMB and the MN in the carpal tunnel are common in the population. Thus, we recommend an ulnar side approach to carpal tunnel release, with a careful layer by layer dissection, to avoid iatrogenic damage to the TMB.
Topics: Cadaver; Carpal Tunnel Syndrome; Hand; Humans; Hypertrophy; Median Nerve; Prevalence; Wrist
PubMed: 26305098
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0136477 -
Neurosurgical Review Apr 2022Restoring shoulder abduction is one of the main priorities in the surgical treatment of brachial plexus injuries. Double nerve transfer to the axillary nerve and... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
Possible donor nerves for axillary nerve reconstruction in dual neurotization for restoring shoulder abduction in brachial plexus injuries: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Restoring shoulder abduction is one of the main priorities in the surgical treatment of brachial plexus injuries. Double nerve transfer to the axillary nerve and suprascapular nerve is widely used and considered the best option. The most common donor nerve for the suprascapular nerve is the spinal accessory nerve. However, donor nerves for axillary nerve reconstructions vary and it is still unclear which donor nerve has the best outcome. The aim of this study was to perform a systematic review on reconstructions of suprascapular and axillary nerves and to perform a meta-analysis investigating the outcomes of different donor nerves on axillary nerve reconstructions. We conducted a systematic search of English literature from March 2001 to December 2020 following PRISMA guidelines. Two outcomes were assessed, abduction strength using the Medical Research Council (MRC) scale and range of motion (ROM). Twenty-two studies describing the use of donor nerves met the inclusion criteria for the systematic review. Donor nerves investigated included the radial nerve, intercostal nerves, medial pectoral nerve, ulnar nerve fascicle, median nerve fascicle and the lower subscapular nerve. Fifteen studies that investigated the radial and intercostal nerves met the inclusion criteria for a meta-analysis. We found no statistically significant difference between either of these nerves in the abduction strength according to MRC score (radial nerve 3.66 ± 1.02 vs intercostal nerves 3.48 ± 0.64, p = 0.086). However, the difference in ROM was statistically significant (radial nerve 106.33 ± 39.01 vs. intercostal nerve 80.42 ± 24.9, p < 0.001). Our findings support using a branch of the radial nerve for the triceps muscle as a donor for axillary nerve reconstruction when possible. Intercostal nerves can be used in cases of total brachial plexus injury or involvement of the C7 root or posterior fascicle. Other promising methods need to be studied more thoroughly in order to validate and compare their results with the more commonly used methods.
Topics: Accessory Nerve; Brachial Plexus; Brachial Plexus Neuropathies; Humans; Nerve Transfer; Shoulder; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 34978005
DOI: 10.1007/s10143-021-01713-z -
The prevalence of nerve injuries following neck dissections - a systematic review and meta-analysis.Danish Medical Journal Aug 2020Symptoms of the shoulder syndrome (SS) and spinal accessory nerve (SAN) impairments are well-known complications to any neck dissections (NDs). Even so, their prevalence... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
INTRODUCTION
Symptoms of the shoulder syndrome (SS) and spinal accessory nerve (SAN) impairments are well-known complications to any neck dissections (NDs). Even so, their prevalence is reported with large variations in the literature. Furthermore, marginal mandibular nerve (MMN) injuries are claimed to be underreported. The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of SS, SAN and MMN injuries after different types of ND.
METHODS
This systematic review and meta-analysis included studies reporting SAN and MMN injuries following the three main types of ND. Pooled estimates of the prevalence were made by the main types of ND with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI).
RESULTS
Nineteen studies reported a total of 457 SAN injuries. The estimated prevalence of SS or SAN injuries following radical neck dissection, modified radical neck dissection and selective neck dissection was 94.8% (95% CI: 88.5-98.9%), 33.0% (95% CI: 19.4-48.3%) and 27.9% (95% CI: 7.1-54.5%), respectively. Five studies reported a total of 64 MMN injuries. The estimated prevalence following modified radical neck dissection and selective neck dissection was 13.1% (95% CI: 0-37.6%) and 12.7% (95% CI: 4.3-24.1%), respectively.
CONCLUSIONS
This meta-analysis estimated a high prevalence of SS, SAN and MMN injuries following the three main types of ND. If oncological considerations allow it, the less morbid ND should be considered. MMN injuries have only been reported in a limited number of small studies. The results may be used to compare future research and as guidance for quality evaluation within departments.
Topics: Accessory Nerve; Accessory Nerve Injuries; Facial Nerve Injuries; Humans; Neck Dissection; Postoperative Complications; Prevalence; Shoulder; Shoulder Injuries
PubMed: 32741441
DOI: No ID Found -
Shoulder & Elbow Jun 2020Trapezius palsy results from injury to the spinal accessory nerve. The condition presents with loss of shoulder abduction, pain, and winging of the scapula. Surgical... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Trapezius palsy results from injury to the spinal accessory nerve. The condition presents with loss of shoulder abduction, pain, and winging of the scapula. Surgical treatment may improve functional outcomes and quality of life.
PURPOSE
The purpose of this study was to report and evaluate the clinical outcomes following surgical management of trapezius palsy.
STUDY DESIGN
Systematic review.
METHODS
The electronic databases EMBASE, MEDLINE, and PubMed were searched for studies and relevant data were abstracted. Only studies reporting on outcomes after the surgical treatments of trapezius palsy were included.
RESULTS
A total of 10 studies including 192 patients were included in this review. All surgical interventions resulted in improved function and pain reduction. Patients reported high satisfaction (90-92%) following nerve reconstruction or the Eden-Lange procedure, in comparison to neurolysis. The most common procedure reported was the Eden-Lange muscle transfer (32% reported cases) demonstrating the highest patient satisfaction rates with low complication rate of 7.7%.
CONCLUSION
Patients failing conservative treatment report good outcomes following surgical treatment of trapezius palsy. All reported surgical procedures demonstrate reduction in pain the best results from the Eden-Lange muscle transfer. Further high-quality comparative studies are required to make definitive conclusions regarding the comparative efficacy of each surgical procedure.
PubMed: 32565916
DOI: 10.1177/1758573219872730 -
European Journal of Surgical Oncology :... Jul 2017Shoulder pain and dysfunction may occur following neck dissection among people being treated for head and neck cancer. This systematic review aims to examine the... (Review)
Review
INTRODUCTION
Shoulder pain and dysfunction may occur following neck dissection among people being treated for head and neck cancer. This systematic review aims to examine the prevalence and incidence of shoulder and neck dysfunction after neck dissection and identify risk factors for these post-operative complications.
METHODS
Electronic databases (Pubmed, CINAHL, EMBASE, Cochrane) were searched for articles including adults undergoing neck dissection for head and neck cancer. Studies that reported prevalence, incidence or risk factors for an outcome of the shoulder or neck were eligible and assessed using the Critical Review Form - Quantitative Studies.
RESULTS
Seventy-five articles were included in the final review. Prevalence rates for shoulder pain were slightly higher after RND (range, 10-100%) compared with MRND (range, 0-100%) and SND (range, 9-25%). The incidence of reduced shoulder active range of motion depended on surgery type (range, 5-20%). The prevalence of reduced neck active range of motion after neck dissection was 1-13%. Type of neck dissection was a risk factor for shoulder pain, reduced function and health-related quality of life.
CONCLUSIONS
The prevalence and incidence of shoulder and neck dysfunction after neck dissection varies by type of surgery performed and measure of dysfunction used. Pre-operative education for patients undergoing neck dissection should acknowledge the potential for post-operative shoulder and neck problems to occur and inform patients that accessory nerve preservation lowers, but does not eliminate, the risk of developing musculoskeletal complications.
Topics: Head and Neck Neoplasms; Humans; Incidence; Neck; Neck Dissection; Postoperative Complications; Prevalence; Quality of Life; Range of Motion, Articular; Shoulder Joint; Shoulder Pain; Somatosensory Disorders
PubMed: 27956321
DOI: 10.1016/j.ejso.2016.10.026 -
Hand (New York, N.Y.) May 2023Restoration of shoulder function in obstetrical brachial plexus injury is paramount. There remains debate as to the optimal method of upper trunk reconstruction. The... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
BACKGROUND
Restoration of shoulder function in obstetrical brachial plexus injury is paramount. There remains debate as to the optimal method of upper trunk reconstruction. The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that spinal accessory nerve to suprascapular nerve transfer leads to improved shoulder external rotation relative to sural nerve grafting.
METHODS
A systematic review of Medline, EMBASE, EBSCO CINAHL, SCOPUS, Cochrane Library, and TRIP Pro from inception was conducted. Our primary outcome was shoulder external rotation.
RESULTS
Four studies were included. Nerve transfer was associated with greater shoulder external rotation relative to nerve grafting (mean difference: 0.82 AMS 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.27-1.36, < .005). Patients undergoing nerve grafting were more likely to undergo a secondary shoulder stabilizing procedure (odds ratio [OR]: 1.27, 95% CI: 0.8376-1.9268).
CONCLUSION
In obstetrical brachial plexus injury, nerve transfer is associated with improved shoulder external rotation and a lower rate of secondary shoulder surgery.
LEVEL OF EVIDENCE
Level III; Therapeutic.
Topics: Humans; Shoulder; Nerve Transfer; Brachial Plexus Neuropathies; Retrospective Studies; Brachial Plexus; Birth Injuries
PubMed: 34448408
DOI: 10.1177/15589447211030691 -
International Journal of Oral and... May 2019The aim of this systematic review was to describe the anatomical and surgical factors related to cranial nerve injuries in Le Fort I osteotomy. The protocol of this...
The aim of this systematic review was to describe the anatomical and surgical factors related to cranial nerve injuries in Le Fort I osteotomy. The protocol of this systematic review was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO). Two independent reviewers performed an unrestricted electronic database search in the MEDLINE/PubMed, LILACS, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases up to and including August 2018. Thirty-two articles were selected for data extraction and synthesis: 30 studies were identified in the main search and two by a manual search. The level of agreement between the reviewers was considered excellent (κ=0.779 for study selection and κ=0.767 for study eligibility). This study revealed that the main nerve affected was the trigeminal nerve, followed by the oculomotor, abducens, optic, facial, and vagus and accessory nerves. Cleft lip and palate patients presented the highest incidence of cranial nerve damage. Cranial nerve damage after Le Fort I osteotomy is not rare. Anatomical and structural knowledge of the patient are necessary in order to minimize the risks of cranial nerve injury in Le Fort I osteotomy.
Topics: Cleft Lip; Cranial Nerve Injuries; Humans; Maxilla; Maxillary Osteotomy; Osteotomy, Le Fort; Prospective Studies
PubMed: 30598335
DOI: 10.1016/j.ijom.2018.11.012 -
Annals of the Royal College of Surgeons... Apr 2014The retrojugular approach for carotid endarterectomy (CEA) has been reported to have the advantages of shorter operative time and ease of dissection, especially in high... (Comparative Study)
Comparative Study Meta-Analysis Review
INTRODUCTION
The retrojugular approach for carotid endarterectomy (CEA) has been reported to have the advantages of shorter operative time and ease of dissection, especially in high carotid lesions. Controversial opinion exists with regard to its safety and benefits over the conventional antejugular approach.
METHODS
A systematic review of electronic information sources was conducted to identify studies comparing outcomes of CEA performed with the retrojugular and antejugular approach. Synthesis of summary statistics was undertaken and fixed or random effects models were applied to combine outcome data.
FINDINGS
A total of 6 studies reporting on a total of 740 CEAs (retrojugular approach: 333 patients; antejugular approach: 407 patients) entered our meta-analysis models. The retrojugular approach was found to be associated with a higher incidence of laryngeal nerve damage (odds ratio [OR]: 3.21, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.46-7.07). No significant differences in the incidence of hypoglossal or accessory nerve damage were identified between the retrojugular and antejugular approach groups (OR: 1.09 and 11.51, 95% CI: 0.31-3.80 and 0.59-225.43). Cranial nerve damage persisting during the follow-up period was similar between the groups (OR: 2.96, 95% CI: 0.79-11.13). Perioperative stroke and mortality rates did not differ in patients treated with the retrojugular or antejugular approach (OR: 1.26 and 1.28, 95% CI: 0.31-5.21 and 0.25-6.50).
CONCLUSIONS
Currently, there is no conclusive evidence to favour one approach over the other. Proof from a well designed randomised trial would help determine the role and benefits of the retrojugular approach in CEA.
Topics: Cranial Nerve Injuries; Endarterectomy, Carotid; Epidemiologic Methods; Humans; Ischemic Attack, Transient; Stroke; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 24780780
DOI: 10.1308/003588414X13814021679357