A modified dissection method to preserve neck structures.

The neck is not only one of the more challenging anatomical regions to dissect but also has important application to clinical conditions, diseases, and procedures. In this study, we describe two simple modifications for dissection of the neck that (1) aid in the identification and preservation of the cutaneous branches of the cervical plexus and the accessory nerve, and (2) provide wide exposure of the root of the neck. The cutaneous branches of the cervical plexus can be identified with relative ease at the nerve point of the neck, where they are largest.