Surgical Outcomes in Patients with Endolymphatic Sac Tumors: A Single-Center Experience of 29 Patients.

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the clinical features and surgical outcomes of patients with endolymphatic sac tumors (ELSTs).

STUDY

DESIGN

Single institution retrospective cohort study.

METHODS

The clinical data of 29 patients with 30 ELSTs who underwent surgery were retrospectively reviewed. Information on patient demographics, tumor size and grade, intraoperative blood loss volume, hearing and facial nerve outcomes, and follow-up data was collected and analyzed.

RESULTS

The main symptoms were hearing loss in 26 ELSTs (86.7%) and tinnitus in 17 (56.7%). Twenty-four (80%) ELSTs were in advanced stages (Grade III). The median tumor volume was 6.35 cm3. The median intraoperative blood loss volume was 300 mL. Facial nerve function was well preserved in 21 patients. Among all patients with Grade III tumors, 12 patients underwent tension-free anterior facial nerve rerouting, and 11 patients (91.7%) maintained good facial nerve function postoperatively (HB I and HB II). Only one patient exhibited permanent vocal cord paralysis, and no patients experienced cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage postoperatively. Gross total resection was achieved in 22 patients (73.3%), 5 patients (16.7%) experienced tumor recurrence, and 3 (10%) had residual tumors.

CONCLUSIONS

Most ELSTs tend to be diagnosed in the advanced stage. Tension-free anterior facial nerve rerouting could maximally preserve facial nerve function. The intraoperative blood loss volume was associated with tumor size and stage. Tumor recurrence tends to occur at the posterior edge of the petrosal bone, internal auditory canal, and surface of the posterior fossa. Given the relatively high recurrence rate of ELSTs, long-term follow-up is recommended.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4 Laryngoscope, 135:339-344, 2025.