Long-term recurrence rate of pleomorphic adenoma and postoperative facial nerve paresis (in parotid surgery)

Summary Background The purpose of this study was to evaluate recurrence rates and comorbidity in patients with pleomorphic adenomas of patients after superficial and total conservative parotidectomy. Patients and methods Localization of pleomorphic adenomas, age, sex distribution and facial nerve function of 73 patients were examined in this retrospective study. The recurrence rate could be determined in 43 of these patients. The interval between surgery and last recall varied between 2 and 20 years (median: 8.1 years). Results Most of the patients were female (67%) with a parotid pleomorphic adenoma. No recurrence was found regard less of whether a superficial or total conservative parotidectomy had been performed. Our data did show that the total conservative parotidectomy is associated with a higher incidence of temporary impaired facial nerve function, which was seen in 42% of this group. Temporary decreased nerve function after superficial parotidectomy was rare being apparent in only 16% of this group. Conclusion A more radical procedure does not significantly lower the recurrence rate. We suggest that the indication for a total conservative parotidectomy in cases of superficial adenomas should be considered carefully.