Excision of Unilateral Parotid Gland Tumor
Cost: $8,518 USD
Length of hospitalization: 2 days
What is Parotid Gland Tumor Excision?
Parotid gland tumor excision is a surgical procedure performed to remove a tumor in one of the main salivary glands, located on each side of the face, just in front of the ears. Most parotid tumors are benign, but some can be malignant, and surgery is necessary both to relieve symptoms and to prevent the tumor from growing or spreading.
During surgery, the surgeon makes an incision in the area of the parotid gland, making sure to avoid the facial nerve, which passes through this gland and controls facial movements. Precise removal of the tumor helps minimize the risks of nerve damage and preserve facial function.
Includes
- Medical Team
The surgery is performed by a team specialized in head and neck surgery, guaranteeing the precision necessary to avoid damage to the facial nerve and ensure complete removal of the tumor.
- Laboratory
Includes complete pre-surgical studies that evaluate the patient’s general health to ensure that he or she is in optimal condition for the intervention.
- Office
Imaging tests such as a chest X-ray and a head and neck CT scan, which allow the location and extent of the tumor in the parotid gland to be evaluated and the surgical procedure to be planned safely.
- Preoperative Evaluation by Internal Medicine + EKG
A detailed evaluation performed by an internist and an electrocardiogram (ECG) to confirm that the patient is in adequate condition for surgery.
- Postoperative Visits
Follow-up after surgery to ensure proper recovery, verify the healing of the incision and detect any possible complications.
- Pathology study
The removed tumor is sent to the laboratory for histopathological analysis, which confirms the type of tumor and the presence or absence of malignant cells.
Preparing for surgery
For the excision of a parotid gland tumor, the medical team usually tells the patient:
- Fasting for at least 6 to 8 hours before surgery if general anesthesia will be used.
- Discontinuation of certain medications, especially blood thinners, to reduce the risk of bleeding during the procedure.
- Avoiding the use of cosmetic products in the head and neck area to ensure proper preparation and disinfection of the skin before surgery.
Recovery
Recovery from parotid gland tumor excision is generally rapid, although there may be swelling and discomfort in the treated area. Recommendations include:
- Avoid sudden movements or physical exertion during the first few weeks to allow proper healing.
- Keep the wound clean and dry as directed by your medical team to prevent infection.
- Take painkillers as directed to control any postoperative discomfort or pain.
Most patients can return to normal activities within 1 to 2 weeks, although they should avoid strenuous physical exertion until they receive full medical clearance.
Risks and ComplicationsRiesgos y Complicaciones
Although excision of a tumor in the parotid gland is a safe procedure, it does carry some risks, including:
- Infection at the incision site, which may require treatment with antibiotics.
- Bleeding or bruising in the treated area.
- Damage to the facial nerve, which could affect facial movements, although this risk is minimized by the specialized medical team.
The medical team provides specific instructions to minimize these risks and ensure a smooth recovery.