Salivary Gland Tumour Surgery

Salivary gland tumors represent abnormal growths that can develop within the salivary glands, which are crucial for saliva production. Effective surgical management is essential for these tumors, helping to ensure optimal patient outcomes. At MicroCare ENT, we provide advanced surgical treatments tailored to each patient’s specific needs.

1. Overview of Salivary Gland Tumours

Understanding Tumour Development

Salivary glands, comprising major (parotid, submandibular, sublingual) and minor glands, produce saliva essential for digestion and oral hygiene. Tumours in these glands can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Early diagnosis and precise surgical intervention play vital roles in managing these conditions effectively.

2. Indications for Surgery

When is Surgery Necessary?

Surgical intervention becomes necessary in the following situations:

Presence of a salivary gland mass or lump.
Persistent pain or swelling in the facial region.
Difficulty swallowing or speaking due to tumour growth.
Confirmed diagnosis of benign or malignant salivary gland tumours via imaging and biopsy.

3. Preoperative Evaluation

Advanced Diagnostic Protocols

A comprehensive evaluation is essential before surgery and includes:

Ultrasound: To assess tumour size, location, and nature.
Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) Biopsy: Cytological examination to distinguish between benign and malignant tumours.
MRI or CT Scans: Detailed imaging to determine tumour extent and involvement of surrounding structures.

This thorough diagnostic approach ensures accurate surgical planning and enhances surgical precision.

4. Types of Surgical Procedures

Tailored Surgical Techniques

Depending on tumour type and location, the following surgeries are commonly performed:

Parotidectomy: Removal of tumours in the parotid gland. This may be superficial (partial) or total, depending on tumour extent.
Submandibular Gland Excision: Removal of tumours within the submandibular gland through an incision beneath the jawline.
Sublingual Gland Surgery: Excision of tumours in the sublingual glands, accessed intraorally or externally, depending on tumour size and location.
Minor Salivary Gland Excision: Removal of tumours in the minor glands located within the oral cavity and throat.

5. Surgical Procedure

Precision and Safety

Surgery is performed under general anesthesia.
Careful identification and preservation of critical structures such as facial nerves are prioritized to avoid postoperative complications.
In malignant tumours, adjacent lymph nodes might also be removed (neck dissection) to ensure complete excision and prevent recurrence.

6. Benefits of Salivary Gland Tumour Surgery

Ensuring Optimal Outcomes

Definitive removal of tumour mass, reducing recurrence risk.
Alleviation of pain, discomfort, and functional impairment (e.g., swallowing difficulties).
Improved facial aesthetics and symmetry, particularly important in parotid tumour management.
Prevention of potential malignant transformation of benign tumours.

7. Postoperative Care

Recovery and Follow-Up

Patients typically remain hospitalized for 1–2 days post-surgery for monitoring.
Pain management, wound care, and regular follow-ups are crucial during recovery.
Speech and swallowing function are assessed postoperatively to ensure complete recovery of oral functions.
Regular follow-up imaging and evaluations to monitor for any signs of recurrence, especially in malignant cases.

8. Potential Risks and Complications

Understanding and Managing Risks

While surgery is generally safe, potential risks include:

Temporary or permanent facial nerve damage (particularly with parotid gland surgery).
Infection or bleeding at the surgical site.
Frey’s syndrome (facial sweating during eating) in some parotid gland surgeries.
Salivary fistula formation (leakage of saliva through the skin).

At MicroCare ENT, our experienced surgeons minimize these risks through meticulous surgical techniques.

9. Why Choose MicroCare ENT?

Expert Surgical Care and Precision

Highly experienced ENT and maxillofacial surgical specialists.
Advanced diagnostic and surgical facilities tailored specifically for salivary gland conditions.
Personalized, compassionate care ensuring patient comfort and confidence at every step.
Excellent postoperative support and rehabilitation programs for rapid recovery.

Salivary gland tumour surgery provides effective, definitive treatment for benign and malignant tumours, significantly enhancing patient outcomes. At MicroCare ENT, we combine state-of-the-art surgical techniques with compassionate care, ensuring the highest standards in managing salivary gland conditions.

Trust our specialists to deliver safe, precise, and effective surgical solutions tailored specifically to your health needs.

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Salivary Gland Tumour Surgery