Modified functional neck dissection: a useful technique for oral cancers.

Among 60 patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma, 30 were treated by the modified functional neck dissection (preserve 8 functional tissues), 30 were treated by functional neck dissection (preserve 3 functional tissues). The recurrent rate of cervical lymph node and the sense of skin were assessed. The recurrence rates in cervical nodes was 6.67% and 10%, respectively (p > 0.05) in patients who accepted modified functional neck dissection and functional neck dissection. The sensation in skin in patients who accepted modified functional neck dissection was better than those who accepted functional neck dissection (p < 0.01). Modified functional neck dissection is helpful to decrease postoperative complications, without increasing recurrent rates of cervical lymph node.