Extracapsular dissection by the sternocleidomastoid muscle-parotid space approach reduces the risks of postparotidectomy sialocele and salivary fistula.

BACKGROUND: Postoperative sialoceles and fistulas are frequent surgical complications of parotid tumor resection. Extracapsular dissection by the sternocleidomastoid muscle-parotid space approach (ECD-SMPSA) is a minimally invasive technique. To our knowledge, the characteristics of sialoceles and fistulas secondary to ECD-SMPSA have not been reported. METHODS: This prospective study enrolled 52 patients who underwent ECD-SMPSA without sialocele/fistula prevention measures. Postoperative sialoceles and fistulas were evaluated during 2 months of follow-up. RESULTS: Among the 52 patients, only one male patient developed a mild sialocele. No salivary fistulas occurred. The overall rate of sialocele/fistula formation was 1.92%. CONCLUSIONS: When treating clinically benign tumors that involve the sternocleidomastoid muscle-parotid space, ECD-SMPSA may prevent postoperative formation of sialoceles and salivary fistulas.