Penetrating Trauma to the Parotid Gland

Penetrating trauma to the parotid gland may present unique challenges especially when Stensen duct, neurovascular structures, and/or collateral organs are involved. Especially ballistic injuries caused by high-velocity projectiles or fragments of grenades and improvised explosive devices are often associated with massive tissue damage and a high risk of infections and other posttraumatic complications. Because penetrating parotid trauma is not very common, only limited information on the primary treatment of such injuries is available. This article gives a short overview about actual aspects on diagnosis and treatment strategies especially focusing on ballistic parotid injuries.