Cross-sectional study on the occurrence of Frey's syndrome following superficial parotidectomy or extracapsular dissection

Summary Background Most studies that examine postoperative outcomes after parotidectomy in patients with benign parotid gland tumors are based on retrospective chart reviews. Data about long-term results in patients with parotid gland surgery with patient contact are still sparsely published. Methods During the period of 1960–2005, a total of 127 patients underwent either extracapsular dissection (ECD) or superficial parotidectomy (SP) and were available for interview. Patients were questioned about their postoperative outcome after parotid gland surgery. Results The mean follow-up was 21.5 years. A total of 42 and 85 patients underwent ECD and SP, respectively. No significant differences were observed in the rates of permanent facial paralysis (SP 1.2% vs. ECD 7.1%; p=0.1053) or recurrence (SP 4.7% vs. ECD 11.9%; p=0.1557), and Frey’s syndrome was diagnosed only after SP (10.6% vs. 0% after ECD, p=0.0293). Frey’s syndrome was detected more often compared to retrospective chart analysis. Conclusion We conclude that Frey’s syndrome is underdiagnosed after SP without standardized follow-up examinations. Long-term follow-up should be applied to detect and treat gustatory sweating.