Extracranial temporal bone paragangliomas: Re-defining the role of otologic surgery within the scope of function-preserving multimodal concepts.

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to present our concept in the management of extracranial temporal bone paragangliomas and demonstrate the outcome after primary surgical management of the middle ear component, with an individualized indication for adjuvant radiotherapy.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

The records of all patients treated for extracranial jugulotympanic paragangliomas by means of primary surgical management between 2010 and 2021 were studied retrospectively.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine patients made up our study sample (mean age 58.8 years). 15 cases were managed solely by means of surgery. Out of the remaining 14 cases with reduction of the middle ear component, adjuvant irradiation was performed in 11 cases, whereas a wait-and-scan strategy was adopted at the patient's request in three cases. No further growth was detected in our study cases.

CONCLUSION

Our protocol seems to be associated with an acceptable quality of life and a satisfactory oncologic outcome.