Three cases of bilateral chylothorax developing after neck dissection.

Only 16 cases of bilateral chylothorax following neck dissection have been reported within 10 decades. In this paper, three cases of bilateral chylothorax which developed after neck dissection are reported. In all cases, conservative treatment resulted in resolution of the condition. Diagnosis may be delayed in those who are on total parenteral nutrition, and therefore particular attention should be paid to those patients. It may be difficult to treat cases of chylothorax that develop following neck dissection performed after radiotherapy.