Salivary Gland Tumor Surgery and Complications to Watch For
The parotid gland is one of the three major salivary glands, located beneath both ears. Inside the parotid gland tissue lies the seventh cranial nerve, which controls facial movements. Therefore, surgery to remove salivary gland tumors or tumors in this area carries significant risks or complications to be cautious of, namely the occurrence of facial paralysis on one side after surgery.
Methods of Parotid Gland Surgery
There are many methods for parotid gland surgery. The choice of method depends on the location and size of the tumor. For example, if the tumor is located in the superficial part of the parotid gland, the standard surgery is to remove the entire superficial part of the parotid gland (Superficial Parotidectomy). This method carries a risk of facial paralysis ranging from 5-15%.
Partial Parotid Gland Surgery Using the Conservative Parotidectomy Method
Currently, research has found that it is not necessary to remove all of the normal parotid gland tissue. Therefore, a new surgical method called Conservative Parotidectomy has been developed. The results and advantages of this method are:
- It provides the same treatment outcomes and chances of cure as the traditional standard surgery but with fewer complications, significantly reducing the risk of facial paralysis.
- The surgical scar is shorter and can be better concealed.
- The contour of the side of the face is less sunken.
Moreover, if this surgical method is combined with nerve monitoring during surgery, the risk of facial paralysis can be reduced to less than 5%.
Whenever a lump is found or felt on the face near the ear, do not ignore it. Consult a doctor promptly for a thorough diagnosis to determine the cause. If the tumor is small, surgery will be easier compared to waiting until the tumor grows larger, and the risk of postoperative complications will also be lower for smaller tumors.
Dr. Wisarut Samakkitham
Surgeon specializing in thyroid surgery and head and neck cancer
Phyathai 1 Hospital
