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Frey's syndrome following parotid surgery
1Westmead Centre, New South Wales.
The Australian and New Zealand Journal of Surgery
|April 1, 1991
Summary
Frey's syndrome affects over 40% of patients post-parotid surgery, causing gustatory sweating. This benign condition, often seen in women, typically requires only reassurance for management.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Neurosurgery
- Plastic Surgery
Background:
- Parotid surgery can lead to post-operative complications.
- Frey's syndrome, characterized by gustatory sweating, is a known sequela.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the incidence and characteristics of Frey's syndrome after parotid surgery.
- To evaluate the impact of surgical factors on the development of Frey's syndrome.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 21 patients undergoing parotid surgery were followed up via home visits.
- Objective gustatory sweating was confirmed using Minor's Starch Iodine Test.
- Data on surgical variables and patient demographics were collected.
Main Results:
- Objective gustatory sweating was observed in 42.8% of patients.
- Symptomatic Frey's syndrome occurred in 14.3% of patients, with a mean onset of 4.3 months post-surgery.
- Gustatory sweating was more prevalent in female patients, though no statistical significance was found for nerve section, facial nerve paresis, age, or operation type.
Conclusions:
- Frey's syndrome is a common, benign condition following parotid surgery.
- Explanation and reassurance are generally sufficient therapeutic measures.
- Further research may explore specific risk factors and management strategies.