First bite syndrome after parotidectomy: a single-centre experience

The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of first bite syndrome (FBS) among post-parotidectomy patients and to analyse the risk factors for its occurrence. The study involved 111 adult patients operated for benign parotid tumours. After surgery, the participants were asked to assess the presence of food-related pain and the nature of the pain. Participants also answered questions on complications after parotidectomy. FBS was found in seven patients (6.3%). Sex (P=0.036) and age (P=0.002) differed significantly between patients with and without FBS. Female patients were found to be at higher risk of FBS, and the lower the patient's age, the more likely FBS was to occur after surgery. Tumour location (P=0.002) and the occurrence of disturbing symptoms before surgery (P=0.009) had a statistically significant effect on the occurrence of FBS. A tendency towards significance for paresis of cranial nerve VII after surgery (P=0.051) was found; this complication was more frequent in the FBS patients. FBS is a rare pain syndrome that can occur after parotidectomy and should be distinguished from postoperative pain. Proper diagnosis and implementation of the appropriate treatment can significantly improve patient quality of life.