Parotidectomy

It is a surgical procedure in which part or all of the parotid gland, the largest salivary gland located in front of the ear, is removed to treat benign or cancerous tumors.

🔹 Why is a parotidectomy performed?
✅ The presence of a benign tumor (such as a pleomorphic adenoma or lymphoma).
✅ The presence of a cancerous tumor that requires radical removal to prevent its spread.
✅ Chronic infections or recurrent abscesses causing functional problems.

🔹 Types of parotidectomy:
1️⃣ Superficial parotidectomy
✔️ Removal of only the superficial part of the gland, often used for benign tumors.
✔️ The facial nerve is preserved to avoid paralysis of one half of the face.

2️⃣ Total parotidectomy
✔️ The entire gland is removed in cases of large or cancerous tumors.
✔️ Care is taken to preserve the facial nerve as much as possible.

🔹 Possible Risks:
⚠️ Facial nerve injury, which may result in temporary or permanent weakness of the facial muscles.
⚠️ Frey's syndrome (sweating while eating due to abnormal nerve reconnection).
⚠️ Swelling or temporary changes in facial sensation.

🔹 Post-Surgery Recovery:
⚠️ The patient requires wound care and avoidance of strenuous activities for several weeks.
⚠️ Radiation therapy may be administered in some cancerous cases after surgery.
⚠️ Monitoring facial nerve function and wound healing is essential to ensure proper recovery.

💡 The procedure is effective and safe when performed by a specialized surgeon like Dr. Mohamed Abdel Khaleq, and helps remove tumors and improve quality of life.