Partial superficial parotidectomy as the method of choice for treating pleomorphic adenomas of the parotid gland

We present our experience of 156 patients with parotid pleomorphic adenomas who were treated from 1995 to 2009 by partial superficial parotidectomy. In each case the main trunk of the facial nerve was identified and dissected. Only the division of the nerve adjacent to the tumour was dissected, and only the parotid tissue surrounding the tumour was excised. The results were satisfactory, as no patient developed permanent partial or total facial nerve paralysis, and transient paresis was noticed in only 23 patients (15%). Only one tumour recurred, and Frey syndrome developed in only 6 patients (4%). Enucleation was required in 55 patients (35%) because the tumour was so close to the branches of the facial nerve. Partial superficial parotidectomy is a safe treatment for parotid pleomorphic adenomas with relatively few postoperative complications. When it is done by experienced surgeons no permanent deficits are likely, it has low rates of recurrence, and gives excellent aesthetic results.