Facial nerve preservation in total parotidectomy for parotid tumors: a review of 27 cases.

We conducted a study to evaluate the success of facial nerve preservation in 27 adults with a parotid tumor who underwent total parotidectomy. Of this group, 11 patients had a malignant tumor, 10 had a recurrent benign tumor, and 6 had a primary benign tumor. Preoperatively, 7 patients had facial nerve paresis. Postoperatively, facial nerve preservation was achieved in all but 1 case; in the exception, the nerve was sacrificed and grafting was necessary. In conclusion, facial nerve preservation can be achieved in almost all cases of total parotidectomy.