Transoral Resection of Giant Parapharyngeal Space Tumors via a Combined Surgical Approach

INTRODUCTION: Parapharyngeal space (PPS) tumors account for 0.5% of the head and neck neoplasms. Based on the evidence, 80% of these tumors are of a benign nature. Surgical excision is the treatment of choice for this condition. The present study was conducted to propose transoral resection as an efficient way to excise the benign well-defined tumors of the PPS. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This retrospective case series study was conducted on seven patients undergoing the transoral excision of the sizeable masses of the PPS via a combined approach. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance scans revealed giant masses in the PPS in all cases. These neoplasms were preoperatively diagnosed as well-delineated, non-vascular, and benign. RESULTS: All patients underwent transoral tumor excision preceded by an auxiliary transcervical approach, which served as an assurance for the dissection and preservation of the cranial nerves and neurovascular bundle without any tumor spillage. Average hospital stay was limited to a maximum of 3 days, and all patients had an uneventful postoperative course. The follow-up examination did not indicate any recurrence. CONCLUSION: Based on the findings, transoral resection can be concluded as an efficient way to excise benign, well-defined tumors of the PPS. This procedure appears to be safe when a secondary transcervical approach is applied. Given the unnecessity of performing mandibulotomy in this procedure, it is expected to have lower morbidity and fewer complications.