American Thyroid Association's central neck dissection terminology and classification for thyroid cancer consensus statement

The American Thyroid Association recently published a consensus statement on central neck dissection terminology and classification for thyroid cancer. The American Academy of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery had representation in this multidisciplinary effort, which also included endocrinologists and general endocrine surgeons. This important statement will help surgeons standardize terminology and clarify the intent (elective vs therapeutic) and extent (unilateral vs bilateral) of central neck dissection in operative reports and publications. (C) 2010 American Academy of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery Foundation. All rights reserved.