[Foreign body in parotid gland: a case report]

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Head and Neck Surgery
• Parotid Gland Surgery

Background:

• Recurrent pre-auricular mass with pain indicates a potential parotid gland issue.
• Foreign body presence in the parotid gland is uncommon but clinically significant.

Observation:

• A 44-year-old male presented with a 4-year history of left pre-auricular mass and pain.
• Imaging revealed a low-density shadow within an enlarged left parotid gland.

Findings:

• Surgical exploration identified a foreign body adhered to the facial nerve.
• Successful removal of the foreign body was achieved with meticulous facial nerve protection.

Implications:

• Facial nerve dissection is crucial during parotid gland foreign body removal.
• Preventing iatrogenic facial nerve injury is paramount for optimal surgical outcomes.