Abstract:

Objective        To evaluate the clinical effectiveness of functional excision of benign parotid tumor under a microscope. Methods        42 patients with benign tumors in the superficial lobe of parotid gland were treated with functional excision under a microscope. Compared with the traditional operation, functional parotidectomy under microscope had several advantages， including direct-view, accurate and cosmetic incision, great preservation of parotid masseter fascia/post aurem of great auricular nerve/the duct of parotid gland, and limited exposure of facial nerves. The tumor can be removed by the partial resection of parotid gland superficial lobes and the skin deformity could be repaired with the sternocleidomastoid muscle flap. Results       Among the 42 cases,3 suffered from transient facial nerve palsy. Frey syndrome was identified in 1 case. 5 patients showed decreased sensation around the auricular lobule and anterior auricular region. There was no salivary fistula after the operation and facial deformity was not obvious. Patients were satisfied with their facial appearance. No re-occurrence was found during 1 to 5 year follow-up. Conclusion      Treating benign parotid tumor by functional parotidectomy under a microscope can not only reduce- postoperative complications, but also achieve an  aesthetic effect.

Key words: Parotid tumor; Functional surgery; Parotid excision; Microscope