A case of increased intracranial pressure after unilateral modified radical neck dissection

This study aimed to study case reports and review the world literature concerning increased intracranial pressure secondary to unilateral radical neck dissection.

A male patient presented with a painless lump in the left side of his neck. Diagnostic investigation revealed papillary thyroid carcinoma and 4 x 2-cm left cervical lymph node. Total thyroidectomy with modified radical neck dissection on the left side that included removal of the internal jugular vein was undertaken. Eleven days after the operation, the patient presented with a history of headache and diplopia. Clinical examination showed bilateral papilledema and right-sided sixth cranial nerve palsy. A computed tomographic scan and magnetic resonance image of the brain was normal. Subsequent magnetic resonance venography revealed an aplastic contralateral transverse sinus.

Based on our case, vascular anomalies should be considered in any patient who exhibits signs of increased intracranial pressure after unilateral neck dissection.