Objective：To compare the clinical efficacy of traditional excision of involved lymph nodes and functional neck dissection in the treatment of patients with multiple cervical tuberculous lymphadenopathy(MCTLP). 
Methods：From Jan 2006 to May 2008, 76 patients with MCTLP who presented with focal liquefaction or sinus formation after ineffective conservative therapy were randomly divided into study group(functional neck dissection) and control group. Data regarding the 3-month recurrence rate, postoperative neck function, the mean hospitalization days and medical costs of the 2 groups were compared.
Results：There was significant difference in relapse rate 3 months postoperatively between study group(1 case, 2.56％) and control group(7 cases, 16.22%)(<0.05). Neck function 3 months postoperatively was normal in all of the patients of study group, but was abnormal in 6 cases of control group  (P＜0.05).  The mean medical expenses during hospitalization showed no significant difference (7000 yuan vs. 6700 yuan). There was marked difference  in mean hospitalization days between the study group (11 days) and control group (28day) (P＜0.05). 
Conclusions：Functional neck dissection is a better surgical approach than traditional regional excision for the treatment of patients with MCTLP after ineffective conservative therapy.