[Combined approach for parotid lithiases: A 9 cases retrospective study]

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Surgical Innovation
• Salivary Gland Disorders

Background:

• Minimally invasive techniques (MIT) are preferred for parotid stone removal.
• Combined intra- and extra-oral approaches serve as a viable option when MIT fails.
• This study evaluates the efficacy and complications of these combined surgical strategies.

Observation:

• A retrospective study included 9 adult patients treated between 2006 and 2015 for parotid stones after MIT failure.
• Patients experienced symptoms like pain and swelling, with some developing infectious complications.
• The mean age of patients was 56, with a mean follow-up of 48 months.

Findings:

• Combined approaches successfully removed 75% of parotid stones (9 out of 12).
• The mean stone diameter was 8.5mm, with 33% located in the middle/posterior parotid duct.
• Post-surgery, 77% of patients reported complete symptom relief, though complications included fistula, facial paresis, and recurrences.

Implications:

• Combined surgical approaches are indicated for parotid stone removal failures of MIT.
• These methods can significantly improve quality of life for patients with symptomatic parotid stones.
• Further research may optimize combined techniques to minimize complications and recurrence rates.