Porcine Extracellular Matrix Nerve Wrap in Neck Dissection for Head and Neck Cancer

Impact of Porcine Extracellular Matrix Nerve Wrap on Spinal Accessory Nerve in Patients Undergoing Neck Dissection for Head and Neck Cancer

Perform a preliminary efficacy study using the porcine extracellular matrix nerve wrap (AxoGuard Nerve Protector™, AxoGen Inc., Alachua, FL) to wrap the spinal accessory nerve (SAN) during neck dissections for head and neck cancer as it relates to postoperative shoulder function, both subjectively and objectively.

Many patients who have surgery for head and neck cancer also need a procedure called a neck dissection, where lymph nodes and tissue are removed from the neck. During this surgery, even when a nerve called the spinal accessory nerve (SAN) is carefully preserved, patients often have shoulder problems afterward. These problems can include pain, weakness, and difficulty lifting the arm, which can affect daily activities and quality of life.

This study is testing whether using a special nerve wrap made from pig tissue (called AxoGuard® Nerve Protector) can help protect the spinal accessory nerve during surgery and improve shoulder movement and strength after surgery. This nerve wrap is already used in other types of nerve surgeries and may help the nerve heal better by reducing scar tissue and irritation.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients at least 18 years old
• Patients with no previous treatment of head and neck cancer
• Patients with no prior neck surgeries
• Patients undergoing level IIA and IIB neck diss

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients with previously treated head and neck cancers
• Patients undergoing level V neck dissection
• Patients undergoing bilateral neck dissection
• Patients with previous neck surgery unrelated to head and neck cancer
• Patients allergic to porcine products or with religious/cultural restrictions on porcine products
• Patients unable to consent
• Individuals who are not adults (infants, children, teenagers)
• Pregnant women
• Prisoners