OBJECTIVEThe aim of this study was to investigate the effects of preserving external jugular vein and cervical plexus in reducing intra-cranial pressure, face swelling as well as in avoiding shoulder arm syndrome in neck dissection.

METHODS20 patients with oral cancer were divided into two groups. The facial interstitial pressure was examined before and after neck dissection and lymph tubes were stained by immunochemical techniques.

RESULTSThe degree and lasting time of the increase of facial interstitial pressure in group with external jugular vein and cervical plexus preserved was lower than that in control group. The density of lymphatic tubes around the internal jugular vein, accessory nerve and sternocleidomastoid muscles was much higher than that around the external jugular vein and cervical plexus.

CONCLUSIONPreserving external jugular and cervical plexus during radical treatment is effective not only in reducing the intra-cranial pressure and face swelling, but also in preventing shoulder arm syndrome.