Head and Neck Surgery

What is it?

A lump in the neck may arise due to various causes. Not all lumps have to be removed surgically. However, a complete assessment of a lump by a surgeon is important. The most common causes of a lump include:

• A congenital or developmental abnormality
• Infection by bacteria, viruses or other infectious organisms
• Inflammation
• Abnormal growth of a tissue that may either be benign or malignant, known as a tumour. 

How is it treated?

The surgical approach depends on the size, location and characteristics of a lump. An incision is made along the lines of the neck's skin folds and the area is exposed. The neck tissues are carefully dissected to avoid damage to vital structures and the lump is identified and removed.