[Surgery of pleomorphic adenoma of the parotid gland].

INTRODUCTION

Pleomorphic adenoma is the most common benign tumor of the parotid gland. It has a tendency of recurrence and malignant transformation. The surgical excision of this lesion continues to be the subject of a major debate. In this study, we discuss optimal surgical options for pleomorphic adenoma.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

We reviewed clinical records of 82 patients who underwent surgery.

RESULTS

The tumor was localized in the superficial lobe in 81.7% of cases. Tumors of the deep lobe were removed by total parotidectomy. Those of the superficial lobe underwent partial exofacial parotidectomy (7 cases), exofacial parotidectomy (44 cases), or total parotidectomy (16 cases). Transitory facial paralysis was higher after total parotidectomy. Only one patient developed a recurrence, his tumor showed capsule infiltration.

DISCUSSION: Conventional or partial superficial parotidectomy may be a good compromise with fewer complications and low incidence of recurrence.