Parotidectomy

Parotidectomy is a surgical procedure performed to remove the parotid gland, which is one of the major salivary glands. The procedure is most commonly performed due to neoplasms (tumors), which are growths of abnormal cells. These neoplasms can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).

Indications

The primary indication for a parotidectomy is the presence of a neoplasm in the parotid gland. Other indications may include chronic or recurrent infections, Sjögren's syndrome, and other non-neoplastic diseases of the parotid gland.

Procedure

The procedure is performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision in the skin over the parotid gland and carefully dissects the gland from the surrounding tissues. The facial nerve, which runs through the parotid gland, is identified and preserved. The gland is then removed and the wound is closed with sutures.

Complications

Possible complications of a parotidectomy include facial nerve injury, Frey's syndrome, and salivary fistula. Facial nerve injury can result in facial weakness or paralysis. Frey's syndrome, also known as gustatory sweating, is a condition in which sweating occurs on the cheek, near the removed parotid gland, during meals. A salivary fistula is an abnormal connection between the salivary gland and the skin.

Prognosis

The prognosis following a parotidectomy depends on the underlying reason for the surgery. In cases of benign neoplasms, the prognosis is generally good. For malignant neoplasms, the prognosis can vary widely depending on the specific type and stage of cancer.

See also

• Salivary gland
• Neoplasm
• Sjögren's syndrome
• Frey's syndrome

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  Diagram of the parotid gland

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  After surgical removal of massive parotid tumor