A meta-analysis of the pros and cons of partial superficial parotidectomy versus superficial parotidectomy for the treatment of benign parotid neoplasms

OBJECTIVES: Salivary gland tumors are predominantly benign and frequently localized in the parotid gland (P). The treatment consists primarily of surgical removal; however, the appropriate extent remains a subject of debate. In suitable tumors, superficial parotidectomy (SP) may be substituted for less invasive partial superficial parotidectomy (PSP) (I C). This systematic review analyzed the available literature, comparing PSP and SP with regards to several postoperative outcome parameters (O).

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Established medical databanks were screened for articles evaluating outcomes of PSP compared with SP, published between 1955 and 2019. These data were assessed by pooled risk and odds ratios via meta-analysis.

RESULTS: 11 studies with 1272 patients were included. There was no significant difference in tumor recurrence between PSP and SP (primary outcome). Furthermore, no differences in the occurrence of permanent facial nerve paralysis (FNP), salivary fistula, great auricular nerve analgesia, or hematoma were observed between the groups. However, PSP displayed significantly reduced rates of transient FNP, Frey's syndrome, scar deformity, and xerostomia, as well as shorter surgical time, compared with SP (secondary outcomes).

CONCLUSION: Based on these data, PSP can be recommended as a surgical technique for the treatment of superficially located, small, benign parotid tumors.