Evaluation of Salivary Function Post-Partial Superficial Parotidectomy

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Surgical Oncology
• Nuclear Medicine

Background:

• Parotid pleomorphic adenomas require surgical removal, highlighting the need to preserve salivary function for oral health.
• Maintaining salivary function is crucial for patient quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a surgical method for preserving salivary function during partial superficial parotidectomy.
• To assess the efficacy of Technetium-99m scintigraphy in evaluating post-operative salivary function.

Main Methods:

• A single-center prospective cohort study of 40 patients with parotid pleomorphic adenomas.
• Partial superficial parotidectomy was performed, with salivary function assessed via Technetium-99m scintigraphy three weeks post-operation.

Main Results:

• No complications were observed in the three-week post-operative period.
• Saliva secretion rates were preserved on the operated side.
• A significant difference in saliva secretion was noted between operated and contralateral sides (P<0.01).

Conclusions:

• The superficial parotidectomy technique effectively preserves deep parotid gland salivary function.
• The surgical method demonstrated a high safety profile with no complications and successful duct preservation.
• This approach maintains saliva secretion on the operated side.