Anatomical breakthrough: Game changer for neck surgeries

HCG Cancer Hospital researchers have achieved a sterling breakthrough that could change the way neck cancer surgeries are approached and performed. The team has discovered a new anatomical landmark called "Hatti's plexus" – a reliable network of blood vessels that helps surgeons safely navigate complex neck surgeries.

The lymphatic system comprise clusters of bean-shaped lymph nodes throughout the body, including the neck. In fact, head and neck comprise 40% of total lymph nodes, although occupying a mere 20% of body volume. The anatomy of the lymphatic system in this region poses a formidable challenge for both radiologists and surgeons.

During neck cancer surgery, surgeons need to remove intricately placed lymph nodes that might contain cancer cells. This is akin to de-fusing a bomb wrapped in a maze of wires that perform vital functions. One wrong move could cause life-threatening issues.

The newly discovered Hatti's plexus acts like a bright signpost, helping surgeons navigate their way through the intricate structure and avoid damage to crucial nerves that control our speaking, smiling, and swallowing.

This discovery is pathbreaking given that it appears consistently in all patients, thereby acting like a natural GPS for surgeons and empowering them to work with greater confidence, potentially reducing surgery complications and improving cancer outcomes.

That this finding has converted a complex surgical procedure into a standardized operation will go a long way in making advanced cancer surgery safe and secure for patients everywhere in the form of shortened time frames, lowered risks, and better outcomes.

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