Total conservative parotidectomy for management of benign parotid neoplasms

Abstract

BackgroundThis study assesses the outcomes of total conservative parotidectomy in the management of benign parotid neoplasms. A retrospective review was conducted for all parotidectomies for benign superficial parotid neoplasms from 2013 to 2018. Facial nerve dysfunction, recurrence, and other side-effects were collected and statistically analyzed.ResultsA total of 21 patients were included in our study. Our series included a pleomorphic adenoma (16 patients), Warthin tumor (4 patients), and oncocytoma (1 patient). Overall, 12 patients had temporary facial nerve paresis (57.1%), 3 patients had temporary paralysis (14.3%)—no reported cases of permanent paralysis—and 6 patients sustained postoperative good facial nerve function (28.6%). No recurrence was reported in our study period. Other side effects included hemorrhage (1 patient), hematoma (2 patients), seroma (4 patients), and partial skin flap necrosis (2 patients). As well, Frey’s syndrome was reported in 11 patients, and most of them were managed conservatively.ConclusionsTotal conservative parotidectomy is a valuable approach for removing parotid tumors. The rate of complications after this procedure (facial nerve dysfunction and recurrence) is low provided that the technique was performed with meticulous care.