Parathyroidectomy

Parotidectomy is also referred to as parotid tumour surgery. It is a surgery that is used to remove the parotid gland. The parotid gland removal surgery is performed for removing the tumour. The clinicians may also perform radiation therapy and chemotherapy to treat the tumour. The parotid gland is a primary salivary gland. It is located in the upper neck extending toward the cheek. It is an important gland because it is the main pathway for the facial nerves. It may play a significant role in facial nerve disorders. In addition, it releases saliva in the mouth, which helps in keeping the mouth dry and aids in swallowing. Salivary gland cancer often starts with the parotid gland. Although they are rare, most parotid tumours are non-cancerous.

1. It helps in stopping the progression of benign and malignant tumours of major salivary glands.
2. Removal of Neoplasm

Why is this procedure done? 

1. This procedure may be performed to treat and solve the following symptoms of parotid tumour:-
2. Weakness of muscles on the affected side
3. Trouble in opening mouth widely
4. Difficulty in swallowing
5. Numbness in the affected part of the face
6. Presence of a lump or swelling in the neck, mouth, or near the jaw
7. Persistent pain in the area of the salivary gland
8. Swelling in the jaws
9. Loss of facial movement
10. numbness, burning or prickling sensations

What will happen if surgery is delayed? 

1. If the parotid surgery is delayed, then it may lead to the following types of complications:-
2. Facial nerve damage.
3. Salivary fistula.
4. Loss of sensation
5. May affect the physical appearance.
6. Pain in swallowing and opening the mouth can increase to be severe.
7. Facial muscle loss.
8. It may also affect hearing ability.

The procedure of parotid surgery

1. The surgery to remove the parotid gland can be done by three approaches.
2. Removing part of the parotid gland: This process is also called superficial parotidectomy. In this procedure, the surgeon removes the tumour part of the parotid gland. The surgeon also cuts some healthy tissues near the tumour. It is done to minimise the chance of tumour spreading.
3. Removal of the whole parotid gland: This process is known as total parotidectomy. In this surgery, the entire parotid gland is removed by cutting. This process is often recommended in the condition of having larger tumours and for that one that affects the inner part of the parotid gland.

The procedure of parotid surgery

1. The surgery to remove the parotid gland can be done by three approaches.
2. Removing part of the parotid gland: This process is also called superficial parotidectomy. In this procedure, the surgeon removes the tumour part of the parotid gland. The surgeon also cuts some healthy tissues near the tumour. It is done to minimise the chance of tumour spreading.
3. Removal of the whole parotid gland: This process is known as total parotidectomy. In this surgery, the entire parotid gland is removed by cutting. This process is often recommended in the condition of having larger tumours and for that one that affects the inner part of the parotid gland.

What to expect after surgery?  

1.  In the first few postoperative hours, all the patient's vital signs (temperature, blood pressure, and heart rate) are continuously recorded by the nurse staff. 
2. Your face and neck will feel swollen and sore.
3. You may feel difficulty in chewing.
4. You may feel slight nausea and sleepiness.
5. The drainage tube may be present after the surgery but may be removed after one or two days. (only in case of total parotidectomy)
6. The doctor will prescribe some painkillers for reducing the pain caused after the surgery.

First follow-up appointment

1. If the tumour is removed completely, the patient may need only one follow up appointment after the surgery.
2. The scan is not done routinely after the removal of a non-malignant tumour.
3. If there is a concern that benign(non-cancerous) was compromised during surgery, the doctor may order some scans.
4. The doctor may prescribe some pain killers after the surgery to decrease the pain.
5. The doctor will do a physical exam of the area treated.