The effect of neck dissection on human fat transport.

This study examines the effect of neck dissection and thoracic duct ligation on lipid metabolism. Included were 23 patients undergoing neck dissection with thoracic duct ligation. The results showed a temporary reduction in lipid metabolism in approximately half the patients who had a left neck dissection. This effect subsided within 6 months, possibly because of the development of alternative lymph channels. The reduction in fat metabolism in selected cases may have therapeutic effects on patients with morbid hypertriglyceridemia or those who receive chemopreventive regimens. To the best of our knowledge, no similar studies have been reported heretofore in humans.