Biopsy shows cancer still in lymph nodes

Hi.  I've not had a salvage neck dissection, but have had 2 dissections. The first to remove an enlarged lymph that was cancerous (in the pathology) and the second a few weeks later to remove most of the lymphs on my right hand side looking for further evidence of cancer.  In both cases the recovery was quite quick and relatively easy - there were some longer lasting issues where they had touched my accessory nerve and they took around 18 months to settle down. 

Obviously your dissection may be even more intrusive depending what they find and the need to get clear margins.  That may change the mid to long term side effects especially if they have to cut nerves etc.  Have a good chat with them as to what they think may be the issues you will face going forwards so you are prepared.

Good evening Spanishbuilder, im the same as Peter with full neck dissections and to be honest have not heard of salvage dissection. I had a quite a few lymph nodes removed during my first operation, my recovery was very good , a bit swollen to begin with where the neck dissection was healing. Wishing you all the best with your operation,take care.

                                                      Chris