125I seed implant brachytherapy-assisted surgery with preservation of the facial nerve for treatment of malignant parotid gland tumors

The surgical treatment of malignant parotid gland tumors combined with 125I seed implant brachytherapy and preservation of the facial nerve is described. Tumor and parotid gland resection with preservation of the facial nerve was carried out in 12 patients with malignant parotid gland tumors. 125I seeds were implanted into the target area intra- or postoperatively. The extent of regional control of the tumor was followed up, and facial nerve function was evaluated. None of the patients had tumor recurrence during the follow-up period of 50–74 months (median follow-up period, 66 months). Facial nerve function had recovered to normal by 6 months postoperatively in all patients. A limited surgical resection combined with 125I seed implant brachytherapy is therefore considered to be an alternative treatment for local control of malignant parotid gland tumors with preservation of the facial nerve.