Name of the Procedure:

Excision of Parotid Tumor or Parotid Gland: Lateral Lobe, with Dissection and Preservation of Facial Nerve

Summary

In this procedure, the surgeon removes a tumor from the lateral lobe of the parotid gland, which is the salivary gland near the ear. The surgeon carefully preserves the facial nerve to prevent facial muscle paralysis.

Purpose

• Medical Condition: This procedure addresses parotid gland tumors, both benign and malignant.
• Goals: The primary goal is to remove the tumor while maintaining the functionality of the facial nerve. This helps in preventing facial drooping or loss of facial movements.

Indications

• Presence of a tumor in the parotid gland.
• Swelling or lumps near the ear or cheek area.
• Facial pain or discomfort.
• Recent changes in facial symmetry or muscle control.

Preparation

• Fasting: Usually, the patient must fast for about 8 hours before the procedure.
• Medications: Adjustments to blood-thinning medications may be necessary.
• Diagnostic Tests: Imaging studies like MRI or CT scans, and a fine needle aspiration biopsy might be conducted.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: General anesthesia is typically administered.
2. Incision: A surgical incision is made near the ear.
3. Dissection: The surgeon carefully dissects the tissue to expose the parotid gland and locate the facial nerve.
4. Tumor Removal: The tumor is excised from the lateral lobe of the parotid gland.
5. Nerve Preservation: Special attention is given to preserve the facial nerve.
6. Closure: The incision is closed with sutures or staples.

Duration

The procedure usually takes about 3 to 4 hours, depending on the complexity.

Setting

The surgery is performed in a hospital or surgical center operating room.

Personnel

• Surgeons: Specialized in head and neck surgery.
• Anesthesiologists: Manage anesthesia and patient sedation.
• Nursing Staff: Assist during surgery and provide post-operative care.

Risks and Complications

• Common: Temporary facial weakness, swelling, discomfort.
• Rare: Permanent facial nerve damage, infection, bleeding, hematoma.

Benefits

• Primary Benefit: Removal of the tumor with preservation of facial nerve function.
• Timeline: Most patients can see a reduction in symptoms and improvement in facial muscle function within a few weeks.

Recovery

• Post-Procedure Care: Pain management with medications, care for the surgical site, follow-up visits.
• Recovery Time: About 2 to 6 weeks for full recovery. Patients may need to avoid strenuous activities during this period.

Alternatives

• Watchful Waiting: Suitable for small, benign tumors.
• Radiation Therapy: Used for treating malignant tumors or when surgery is not an option.
• Cons: Each alternative has specific risks, benefits, and limitations compared to surgical excision.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient will be under general anesthesia and won't feel any pain. Post-procedure experiences may include mild to moderate pain, swelling, and temporary facial weakness, which can be managed with medications and proper care.