Intraoperative Ansa Cervicalis Nerve (ACN) Stimulation

Recently published data suggest that stimulation of the infrahyoid strap muscles increases pharyngeal patency in patients with obstructive sleep apnea, but the innervation of these muscles by the ansa cervicalis is variable. The investigators propose a study examining the anatomic variation of the ansa cervicalis and the effect of neurostimulation on muscle recruitment.

Inclusion Criteria:Adult patient (≥18 years old).Scheduled for bilateral neck dissection (BND) for cervical lymphadenectomy of level IV and other indicated procedures for management of head and neck cancer.Exclusion Criteria:Unable to consent for research due to a pre-existing neurologic condition as determined by PI.Unable to consent for research due to language barriers.History of prior neck surgery with transection of the infrahyoid strap muscles as determined by clinical history.