Acute postoperative parotitis following frontal interhemispheric craniotomy: A case report

Acute postoperative major salivary gland adenitis is a rare complication characterized by swelling of the salivary glands, most commonly associated with skull base neurosurgical procedures. Its occurrence following supratentorial non-skull base craniotomies is uncommon and may be overlooked.

We report a 45-year-old man who developed ipsilateral parotid gland inflammation within 24 h after undergoing a frontal interhemispheric craniotomy for resection of a craniopharyngioma. The procedure was performed in the supine position with 90° head rotation and 45° neck flexion. Postoperative imaging confirmed acute parotitis without abscess or hematoma. The patient was treated conservatively with hydration, warm compresses, and empiric antibiotics, leading to complete resolution of swelling without airway compromise.

Acute postoperative parotitis can occur after supratentorial non-skull base procedures, particularly in cases involving extreme and prolonged head positioning. Although we presented a rather mild case of postoperative parotitis following a non-skull base craniotomy, acute major salivary gland adenitis after craniotomy may cause significant morbidity and early recognition and conservative management are essential to prevent airway compromise and other complications. Awareness of this rare entity may help neurosurgeons implement preventive measures during surgery.