parotid tumours a conservative investigative and surgical approach

Abstract Background: The extent of preoperative investigations for parotid tumours and whether a partial or total parotidectomy should be performed for malignancy remain controversial. In developing countries, limited access to special investigations and their affordability requires careful consideration when investigating parotid tumors. Aims: This study assesses whether a conservative investigative and surgical approach to parotid malignancies with adjuvant radiation therapy in selected patients is associated with acceptable local control and survival rates. Methods: A retrospective observational audit was conducted on patients undergoing parotid surgery for parotid masses, by a single surgeon, between 1st January 2004 and 31st December 2012. Outcome measures included local tumour control and five-year disease-specific survival, calculated via Kaplan-Meier analysis. Results: Three hundred and forty-seven parotidectomies were performed for parotid masses between 2004 and 2012. Fifty-three primary parotid malignancies were diagnosed (15%) and were followed up for a mean of 56.6 months postoperatively. Adopting a conservative investigative and surgical approach to primary parotid malignancies was associated with a local tumour control rate of 92.5%. Conclusion: A conservative investigative and surgical approach with adjuvant radiation therapy in select patients is associated with excellent local control with primary parotid malignancy. Keywords Cancer; Malignancy; Parotid partial parotidectomy; Recurrence; Superficial parotidectomy; Survival; Total parotidectomy List of Abbreviations HNC: Head and Neck Cancer; LMIC: Low- And Middle-Income Countries; FNAC: Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology; CT: Computed Tomography; MRI: Magnetic Resonance Imaging; AFHNS: African Head and Neck Society; AJCC: American Joint Committee On Cancer