The Effect of Endoscopy-assisted Transoral Parotid Gland Tumor Excision Compared With Traditional Operation

The incidence of parotid gland tumors is approximately 1 in 100,000, accounting for 80% of all salivary gland tumors, with about 80% being benign. Parotid tumor resection is a well-established surgical technique. Traditionally, the Blair S-shaped incision has been used, but it leaves noticeable scars on the maxillofacial region, which can be a significant burden for both surgeons and patients. Additionally, postoperative complications such as great auricular nerve injury may occur.

In the mid-20th century, the standard surgical approaches for benign parotid tumors included total parotidectomy (with facial nerve sacrifice) or superficial parotidectomy (preserving the facial nerve), which significantly reduced tumor recurrence rates. However, due to the extensive surgical scope, these procedures were associated with a high incidence of complications such as facial nerve dysfunction, Frey's syndrome, salivary fistula, and facial scar deformities.

In recent years, with growing interest in minimally invasive surgery, studies have found that subtotal parotidectomy for benign parotid tumors not only reduces postoperative complications but also maintains comparable recurrence rates. To meet patients' aesthetic demands, more concealed hairline incisions have gained popularity, as the scars can be hidden behind the ear.

With advancements in minimally invasive techniques for parotid tumor surgery, surgeons have developed various approaches to minimize scarring and reduce complications, including retroauricular sulcus incisions, endoscopic-assisted techniques, and transoral/intraoral resections. Endoscopic-assisted techniques leave minimal or hidden scars postoperatively. The combination of intraoral incisions and endoscopy can further conceal surgical scars, reduce patient trauma, and improve satisfaction-without significant complications compared to traditional transcutaneous approaches.