Extracapsular dissection versus total excision for benign submandibular gland tumors

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Surgical Oncology

Background:

• Benign submandibular gland tumors present a challenge in balancing effective treatment with gland function preservation.
• Current management strategies require careful consideration to minimize morbidity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare gland-preserving extracapsular dissection (ECD) with total excision for benign submandibular gland tumors.
• To evaluate functional outcomes, recurrence rates, and patient satisfaction between the two surgical approaches.

Main Methods:

• Fifty patients with benign submandibular gland tumors were assigned to either ECD (n=25) or total excision (n=25).
• Data collected included intraoperative findings, complications, subjective satisfaction, gland function via salivary scintigraphy, and recurrence rates over a median follow-up of 55 months.

Main Results:

• Extracapsular dissection (ECD) showed shorter operation times, reduced bleeding, and preserved facial vasculature (P < 0.05).
• ECD led to superior facial contour satisfaction (P = 0.030) and maintained gland function.
• Both groups had minimal complications and no recurrences during follow-up.

Conclusions:

• Extracapsular dissection (ECD) is a viable surgical option for benign submandibular gland tumors.
• ECD offers improved functional outcomes, reduced surgical morbidity, and enhanced cosmetic results compared to total excision.
• The gland-preserving approach demonstrates efficacy without compromising oncological safety.