Operative technique for benign submandibular gland mass without identifying the mandibular branch of the facial nerve

Abstract

ObjectiveThe marginal mandibular branch of the facial nerve must be protected during surgery for benign diseases of submandibular gland. Methods for protecting the marginal mandibular branch include the nerve identification method and the non-identification method. MethodsWe performed submandibular gland surgery in 138 patients with benign submandibular gland diseases using the non-identification method to preserve the marginal mandibular branch. In brief, the submandibular gland capsule is incised at the inferior border of the gland and detached along the gland parenchyma. The nerve is protected by this procedure without the need for identification. ResultsAmong 138 patients who underwent this surgical procedure, only 7 patients developed transient paralysis of the lower lip. ConclusionThis method of resecting the submandibular gland without identifying the marginal mandibular branch is an effective procedure associated with a low incidence of transient paralysis. Moreover, no patient developed paralysis due to procedural errors.