Structures present in Radical neck node resection
**Core Concept**
Radical neck dissection is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of lymph nodes and other structures in the neck, typically performed to treat or prevent the spread of cancer. This procedure is designed to remove all the lymph nodes and associated tissues on one side of the neck, including the sternocleidomastoid muscle, the internal jugular vein, and the spinal accessory nerve.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The structures removed during a radical neck dissection include the sternocleidomastoid muscle, the internal jugular vein, the spinal accessory nerve, and the submandibular gland. The sternocleidomastoid muscle is removed to allow for complete clearance of lymph nodes in the neck. The internal jugular vein is ligated and divided to remove any involved lymph nodes or metastatic disease. The spinal accessory nerve is sacrificed to remove the lymph nodes along its path. The submandibular gland is removed to ensure complete clearance of lymph nodes in the neck.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect as the omohyoid muscle is not typically removed during a radical neck dissection.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect as the external carotid artery is not removed during a radical neck dissection.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect as the subclavian vein is not typically removed during a radical neck dissection.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It is essential to note that during a radical neck dissection, the spinal accessory nerve is sacrificed to remove the lymph nodes along its path, which can result in shoulder dysfunction and weakness. This is a critical consideration for patients undergoing this procedure.
**Correct Answer: D. The submandibular gland.**