The surgical anatomy and clinical relevance of the neglected right lymphatic duct: review.

BACKGROUND

The major lymphatic vessels may be damaged during neck dissection or other cervical surgery, resulting in chyloma or chyle fistula. While commonly considered to be predominantly a complication of left-sided surgery, the thoracic duct may be damaged on either side of the neck due to the extreme variability in the anatomy of the central lymphatic system.

METHOD AND RESULTS

This paper reviews the variable anatomy and embryology of the thoracic and right lymphatic ducts, particularly aspects relevant to head and neck surgery.