Parotid Gland Surgery:Pre Op Examination
The parotid gland is the largest of the salivary glands. There are two parotid glands, one on each side of the face, just below and to the front of the ear. A duct through which saliva is secreted runs from each gland to the inside of the cheek.
The extra temporal facial nerve and its branches pass through the parotid gland and supply motor innervations to the muscles of facial expression, as well as to the post auricular muscles, the posterior belly of the digastric muscle, and the stylohyoid muscles.
After taking proper history, then complete physical examination is performed. Intra oral examination and bimanual palpation also done. The diagnostic tests are done to help the surgeon better plan for the surgery. Some tests that may be performed include computed tomography (CT) scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and fine-needle aspiration biopsy (using a thin needle to withdraw fluid and cells from the growth). The Facial nerve integrity is carefully assessed before surgery.
CT Imaging of Parotid Tumors:
