Dunlap et al reported risk factors for chyle leak following a radical neck dissection. The authors are from the University of Arkansas in Little Rock.
Patient selection: radical neck dissection, level IV
Frequency of chyle leak: 3%
Risk factors for chyle leak:
(1) left-sided or bilateral neck dissection
(2) harmonic scalpel technique (vs suture ligation or monopolar electrocautery)
(3) endocrine malignancy
Management:
(1) diet modification
(2) pressure-dressing
(3) octreotide
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Specialty: Hematology Oncology
