A 48-year-old woman presents with a painless right parotid swelling. MRI shows a well-defined 3 cm tumor with slow growth over 3 years. Cytology from FNAC suggests a pleomorphic adenoma. The surgical treatment of choice is:
- A Enucleation of the tumor
- B Superficial parotidectomy with facial nerve preservation ✓
- C Total conservative parotidectomy
- D Parotidectomy with prophylactic neck dissection
Correct answer: B. Superficial parotidectomy with facial nerve preservation
Explanation
Superficial parotidectomy with facial nerve preservation is the standard treatment for a pleomorphic adenoma in the superficial lobe of the parotid. Simple enucleation risks leaving microscopic satellite nodules within the pseudocapsule, leading to a 20-45% recurrence rate. Total parotidectomy is reserved for deep lobe involvement. Prophylactic neck dissection is not indicated for benign tumors. The key principle is to resect with an adequate cuff of normal gland around the tumor.
Reference: Dhingra Diseases of Ear, Nose and Throat, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.