Which neck dissection preserves the sternocleidomastoid muscle, internal jugular vein, and spinal accessory nerve while removing lymph node levels I–V?

• A Radical neck dissection
• B Modified radical neck dissection type I
• C Modified radical neck dissection type III (Bocca's) ✓
• D Selective neck dissection (supraomohyoid)

Explanation

Modified radical neck dissection type III, described by Bocca, preserves all three non-lymphatic structures — sternocleidomastoid muscle, internal jugular vein, and spinal accessory nerve — while removing all five neck lymph node levels (I–V). Type I spares only the spinal accessory nerve; type II spares the spinal accessory nerve and SCM. Selective neck dissection removes fewer than all five levels.

Reference: Dhingra Diseases of Ear, Nose and Throat, 7th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.