Parapharyngeal Lipomas: A Literature Review and Surgical Management

Abstract

Parapharyngeal space is a potential deep neck space extending between skull base and the hyoid bone. It is considered to be a rare site for neoplasms and it is even unusual to see Lipomas presenting in this space. Due to the proximity to skull base and presence of important structures in this space, surgical intervention can be complicated. An extensive literature review was carried out to comprehend the presenting features and management of this rare entity. Thirty-six reports/series were included presenting 37 patients between 15-83 years of age with a peak in 5th decade having lipoma in the parapharyngeal space/skull base region. The dimensions of these benign entities ranged between 3 cm to 16 cm. We present & discuss our experience with a large lipoma traversing parotid, submandibular and parapharyngeal spaces and its surgical management. We hope that this review and surgical principles presented will be helpful to the trainees and surgeons dealing with these entities.