Parotidectomy

What is it?

Parotidectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the tumour of the parotid gland. A partial or complete parotidectomy is performed based on the size and extent of the tumour.

What is the aim of the procedure?

The main aim of the procedure is to remove the tumour in its entirety while causing as little damage to the facial nerve as possible.

What is done during the procedure?

The parotid is approached through an incision extending from the front of the ear to the neck following which dissection is performed. 

It is done under general anaesthesia. If you have any queries regarding the anaesthesia, please enquire with the anaesthetist.

What are the risks associated with the procedure?

• Bleeding.

• Wound infection.

• Immediate or delayed Facial nerve palsy which involves incomplete closure of eyes, deviation of angle of mouth, drooling of saliva, Incomplete closure of mouth, Facial asymmetry. Facial nerve palsy can be temporary or permanent.

• Salivary leak.

• Reduced sensation in the ear lobe.

Post-operative care and follow-up:

During the postoperative period a dressing will be present over the side of the face. A drain will be present to prevent fluid collection at the surgical site. Daily dressing will be performed. Based on your general condition, if there are no complications, you will be discharged the day after the surgery.

You will be asked to review a week after the procedure during which time suture removal will be done. Further management will be based on the histopathological report. You may require facial physiotherapy if there is facial nerve palsy.