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My dog has cancer. Neck lymph node surgery near nerves vs. chemo?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Male | neutered | 8 years and 5 months old | 15.5 lbs

My dog has history of squamous cell carcinoma. Recently the lymph node in his neck became inflamed. Vet performed CT and took fine needle aspirate for cytology. If the lymph node comes back as cancerous, should surgery be pursued to remove it or should I just do chemo? Vet feels the lymph node can be removed, but it is located close to nerves.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Kevin Sanada, DVM

Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 29th, 2017

It's difficult to say without knowing all the details of Einstein's case, but If removal is an option, then this would be a better option than chemotherapy. Chemotherapy is generally used to reduce inoperable tumors, or to kill the unseen tumor cells after a tumor removal.

It is true that there are some big nerves and vessels in the neck region where the lymph node is, but in the hands of a skilled surgeon, there is not a big risk of causing damage to these structures.

If your vet has performed at CT, then it appears that you are getting top-notch care for Einstein and I'm sure their recommended course of therapy would be based on sound, evidenced-based knowledge and experience. They may have warned about possible damage to the nerves only as a disclaimer in the rare instance that this could happen. I would ask the surgeon what the chances of nerve damage are in this case to give you more of an idea how dangerous this really is.

If you are still unsure whether the procedure is the right way to go, then you may seek a second veterinary opinion, or a veterinary oncologist (cancer specialist) opinion. Below is a link to an article that may help you with this decision.

https://www.petcoach.co/article/how-to-know-it-s-time-to-see-a-veterinary-specialist/

I hope that helps and Einstein gets better soon.
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Hello, I am so sorry for Einstein's cancer diagnosis. In a situation like this, I would go with your veterinarians recommendation. Removal of the lymph node is definitely a plus, but I would also recommend chemo even after removal of the node. If he has had SCC previously, the cancer may come back regardless of what is done, but if chemo was not pursued the first time, I would recommend it now. I hope all is well with Einstein. Take care.

    Vote Icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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