Partial parotidectomy via periauricular incision: Retrospective cohort study and comparative analysis to alternative incisional approaches
This project was presented in a podium presentation at the Triological Society 2020 meeting, January 25, Coronado CA, USA.
Abstract
Background
We investigated a periauricular approach to the parotid and compared outcomes to alternative parotidectomy incisions.
Methods
Retrospective chart review of patients (n = 97) undergoing partial parotidectomy for benign or malignant pathology by a single surgeon. After October 2017, most patients were approached via a periauricular incision (n = 59).
Results
There was no significant difference in patient age, tumor location, length of hospital stay, postoperative complication, or pathology. Mean tumor diameter was significantly smaller in the periauricular group (2.1 cm) than in the traditional incision group (2.6 cm). No permanent injuries to facial nerve branches occurred in either group. Patients were followed for a median of 44 days after surgery.
Conclusions
This is the largest study to date that demonstrates the periauricular incision is a safe and feasible approach for most parotid neoplasms. The cosmetic advantage of this approach is that the resulting scar is smaller and does not extend into the neck.
Open Research
DATA AVAILABILITY STATEMENT
The data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.
