Central compartment neck dissection for thyroid cancer: Technical considerations

The central compartment of the neck is a common site of local metastasis for thyroid carcinoma. Therefore, knowledge of the surgical techniques employed during a central compartment neck dissection is important to master for any surgeon who manages thyroid cancer patients. We review the anatomical boundaries of the central compartment of the neck as well as discuss the lymphatic drainage patterns of the thyroid gland. We advocate standardization of the surgical approach to the central compartment in order to minimize morbidity and ensure comprehensive removal of all lymph nodes when indicated, which can reduce the need for reoperative dissections.