Parotid Tumor

About Parotid Tumor

The parotid glands sit just in front of each ear and produce most of the saliva that aids digestion, dental health and oral comfort. They are the largest of the salivary glands and the commonest site for salivary gland tumours. While most parotid tumours are benign, untreated growths can slowly enlarge, press on nearby structures and occasionally turn malignant over time.

Pleomorphic adenoma is the most frequent benign parotid tumour. It tends to grow slowly, is usually painless and rarely invades nearby tissue, but it can still distort the cheek and earlobe. Left untreated for many years, a small proportion can transform into carcinoma. Parotid cancers may grow faster and need a different surgical and oncological strategy.

Warning features that suggest possible malignancy include rapid enlargement, pain, facial weakness, skin tethering or a hard lump that does not move. The exact cause of parotid tumours is not fully understood, but smoking and a family history of head and neck tumours have been linked to increased risk. Our team in Lucknow assesses each lump carefully.

Diagnosis combines clinical examination with ultrasound, CT or MRI, and fine needle aspiration cytology. Imaging defines the tumour's relationship with the facial nerve, which controls facial expression and runs through the gland. The choice of procedure depends on tumour size, location, depth and any suspected involvement of the nerve or surrounding tissues.

Surgical options include superficial parotidectomy, the most common operation, which removes the gland above the facial nerve while preserving it. Extracapsular resection takes the tumour with a small rim of healthy gland and suits selected small superficial lesions. Total parotidectomy, sometimes with nerve grafting, is reserved for larger or malignant tumours; Dr. Agarwal, FRCS Edinburgh, specialises in nerve-sparing techniques.

What to expect

• Clinical assessment with ultrasound, CT or MRI
• Fine needle aspiration cytology when indicated
• Discussion of superficial versus total parotidectomy
• Surgery with continuous facial nerve monitoring
• Hidden incision along the ear and neck crease
• Drain placement and pressure dressing
• Plan for nerve grafting only when truly required

Recovery

• Hospital stay of one to two nights for most cases
• Mild swelling and bruising for one to two weeks
• Avoid heavy lifting and straining for three weeks
• Keep the wound clean and dry as advised
• Temporary facial weakness usually settles on its own
• Histology review and follow-up scheduled within two weeks