A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Cervical Range of Motion Between Video-Guided Stretching Exercise and Standard Method in Post-Operative Neck Dissection Patients.

Abstract

Advanced head and neck and thyroid cancers often involve cervical lymph nodes and require neck dissection, causing pain and reduced neck/shoulder mobility. We developed a video-guided neck exercise to maintain mobility and improve quality of life (QOL). Patients who underwent neck dissection (August 1, 2022-November 1, 2023) were randomized into groups using video-guided exercise (n = 21) or printed leaflets (n = 19). Cervical range of motion (CROM) and QOL were measured before surgery. Exercise started on postoperative day 7, and follow-up was conducted at weeks 2 and 12. Of the 40 participants, 36 completed the study (18/group). At week 2, both groups showed reduced CROM without between-group differences. By week 12, the video group improved in flexion and extension, whereas the leaflet group decreased (p = 0.01 and p = 0.04, respectively). Other motions and QOL were unchanged. We recommend video-guided neck exercise for patients undergoing neck dissection, with specialist-supervised training to ensure proper technique and improve clinical outcomes.