Minimally invasive endoscope-assisted parotidectomy: a new approach.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the benefits of a new approach, endoscopic parotidectomy through a postauricular skin incision by using an ultrasonically activated scalpel.


METHODS
An investigation of the outcome of endoscopic parotidectomy at a tertiary referral medical center.


METHODS
Fourteen operations for selected patients presenting with benign parotid tail disease were performed via minimally invasive endoscopic resection by a single surgeon (MK Chen).


RESULTS
All 14 operations were successfully performed endoscopically, and no conversions to conventional open resection were necessary. The procedures lasted 60 to 160 minutes. Two patients had transient grade II facial paresis. The scars were almost invisible due to their concealed location behind the ear.


CONCLUSIONS
Minimally invasive endoscope-assisted parotidectomy is a feasible method for treatment of benign lesions located in the parotid tail. The main advantage of this procedure is that the small operative scar is concealed in the postauricular area resulting in improved cosmetic results.
Chen
Mu-Kuan
MK
Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Changhua Christian Hospital, Taiwan. 53780@cch.org.tw
Chang
Cheng-Chuan
CC
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002648:Child; D002921:Cicatrix; D004724:Endoscopy / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D019060:Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures / Q000295:instrumentation; D010305:Parotid Diseases / Q000601:surgery*; D013525:Surgical Instruments; D016896:Treatment Outcome