A comparison between endoscope-assisted partial parotidectomy and conventional partial parotidectomy.

OBJECTIVE

To report the feasibility of endoscope-assisted parotidectomy with an ultrasonic scalpel.

STUDY

DESIGN

Randomized clinical trial.

SUBJECTS AND

METHODS

A total of 38 patients were randomly assigned to conventional (20 patients) or endoscope-assisted (18 patients) partial parotidectomy. Via retrograde approach, endoscopic and surgical instruments were inserted through two 20- to 25-mm incisions (retromandibular and postauricular).

RESULTS

The endoscopic surgery lasted for 108.61 +/- 11.86 minutes and the bleeding volume was significantly lower than in the conventional group. All 18 patients were satisfied with their cosmetic results; 14 patients (65%) were satisfied with the great auricular nerve preservation; only one patient had temporary facial paresis and salivary fistula. There was no tumor recurrence in both groups during the follow-up after 26 to 40 months) the endoscope-assisted parotidectomy group (median 30 months, range 26-40 months) and conventional group (median 32 months, range 26-40 months).

CONCLUSION

Endoscope-assisted parotidectomy is a feasible technique. This procedure may serve as an alternative approach that allows a smaller incision.