[Pain-sensation following classic neck-dissection (author's transl)]

Resulting neck-dissection surgery (including curative or conservative intervention) very complex pain-syndromes are next to losses of function at the top of complaints stated. The discussion of the case-reports of 242 patients with unilateral neck-dissection and the reexamination of 28 patients free of recurrence revealed several causes of head- and facial pain. The close relationship of functional disability and pain-sensation is discussed. The recommendation of elective neck-dissection - by critical indication - is supported. Resection of nervus accessorius may be necessary in some cases, immediate reconstruction by nerve sutures is recommended. By post-operative treatment the complaints often can be relieved.