Yvonne

Everybody has different takes on neck dissections. It's not really a debate as many OCF posters are content to have neck dissections that end up showing it didn't need to be done at all. They feel better knowing for sure there was no cancer in those lymph nodes. I am the resident contrarian here on OCF so even though I was Stage IV I chose not to have a neck dissection since I was comfortable that the radiation & chemocare of the lymph nodes involved. My ENT surgeon actually supported my decision although both the RO and MO urged me to get neck dissection. But the thought of having unnecessary surgery with major permanent effects dissuaded me.
When the cancer came back and I was having major salvage surgery, the neck dissection surgery was just a small part of it so I agreed. The pathology reports showed no cancer in the lymph nodes, and just necrotic tissues. So my ENT surgeon and my decision to forego a neck dissection turned out to be correct. Lots of people simply are not comfortable without taking every possible step, whether absolutely medically "necessary". It's important to work with your doctors and do what works for you.
Best wishes
Charm