The effect of neck dissection on human fat transport

This study examines the effect of neck dissection and thoracic duct ligatio n on lipid metabolism. Included were 23 patients undergoing neck dissection with thoracic duct ligation. The results showed a temporary reduction in l ipid metabolism in approximately half the patients who had a left neck diss ection. This effect subsided within 6 months, possibly because of the devel opment of alternative lymph channels. The reduction in fat metabolism in se lected cases may have therapeutic effects on patients with morbid hypertrig lyceridemia or those who receive chemopreventive regimens. To the best of o ur knowledge, no similar studies have been reported heretofore in humans. ( Am J Otolaryngol 2001;22:179-183. Copyright (C) 2001 by W.B. Saunders Compa ny).