Identification of lymphatic channels in the tracheoesophageal groove during central neck dissection for thyroid cancer.

BACKGROUND: Chyle leakage after central neck dissection for thyroid carcinoma is an extremely rare condition. We investigated chyle leakage in patients with thyroidectomy and central neck dissection.

METHODS: We experienced 3 cases of chyle leakage. The patterns of lymphatic drainage from the central neck to the lateral neck (supraclavicular fossa) were reviewed. The amount and duration of chyle leakage were measured in patients with postoperative chyle leakages.

RESULTS: The lymphatic channels were found in 2 cases during central neck dissection on the tracheoesophageal groove. One case did not show chyle leakage and ducts during surgery but showed chyle leakage after surgery.

CONCLUSION: Chyle leakage can occur after thyroidectomy with central neck dissection. There have been no reports on identification of lymphatic channels during central neck dissection. This finding will aid in the recognition and treatment of this uncommon complication during or after central neck dissection in patients with thyroid cancer.