Parotidectomy

A parotidectomy can treat cancerous tumors and prevent cancer from spreading. It can also prevent benign tumors from becoming malignant or growing so large that they damage your facial nerve or other tissue.

Introduction

Parotidectomy
A parotidectomy is a surgical procedure designed to remove one or both of the parotid glands, which are located on either side of the face, just in front of and below the ears. The parotid glands are responsible for producing saliva, and when they develop tumors, infections, or other medical conditions, a parotidectomy may be necessary.

What Exactly Is

Parotidectomy
A parotidectomy is the surgical excision of the parotid gland, the major and largest of the salivary glands. The procedure is most typically performed due to neoplasms, which are growths of rapidly and abnormally dividing cells. Neoplasms can be benign or malignant.

Procedure

A parotidectomy is usually performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision in front of or just below the ear, carefully preserving the facial nerve that runs through the parotid gland. The affected portion of the gland is then removed. The incision is closed with sutures, and a drain may be placed to help remove excess fluids. The procedure typically takes a few hours.

Benefits

The Benefits
  • Treatment of tumors:Parotidectomy is often performed to remove benign or malignant tumors within the parotid gland.
  • Relief from symptoms: In cases of benign tumors, parotidectomy can provide relief from symptoms such as pain, discomfort, and facial swelling that may be associated with the growth of the tumor.
  • Improved quality of life: For individuals with chronic parotid gland infections or recurrent salivary gland stones, parotidectomy may offer relief from recurrent pain and swelling, improving their overall quality of life.
  • Diagnosis and staging:In cases of suspected salivary gland malignancies, parotidectomy may be performed to obtain a tissue sample for diagnosis and staging. Accurate staging helps determine the appropriate treatment plan, which may include additional treatments like radiation therapy or chemotherapy.

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