1. What are the early symptoms of parotid gland cancer?
Early parotid gland cancer presents as a slow-growing, painless lump in front of or below the ear or at the mandibular angle. The lump is relatively hard, has indistinct borders, and is poorly mobile.
2. How can parotid gland cancer be distinguished from benign parotid tumors?
Benign parotid tumors grow slowly and have clear borders and smooth surfaces. Malignant tumors grow faster, are hard and fixed, and may cause pain and facial nerve symptoms.
3. What types of parotid gland cancer surgery are available?
Surgery mainly involves superficial or total parotidectomy, removing the tumor and some surrounding normal tissue to ensure safe margins. The facial nerve is preserved whenever possible,
4. What is minimally invasive treatment for parotid gland cancer?
Benign parotid tumors and some low-grade malignant tumors can be removed with endoscopic or robotic assistance, using smaller, less visible incisions.
5. Why is radiotherapy needed after parotid gland cancer surgery?
Postoperative adjuvant radiotherapy is suitable for high-grade tumors, positive margins, nerve invasion, or lymph node metastasis and reduces local recurrence. Radiotherapy can precisely irradiate the tumor bed,
6. What should be done for facial nerve injury after parotid gland cancer surgery?
Intraoperative traction on the facial nerve may cause temporary facial paralysis, which usually resolves within several months. Facial functional training is needed after facial nerve resection and reconstruction.
7. What follow-up is needed after parotid gland cancer treatment?
Regular postoperative head and neck ultrasound and CT or MRI monitor local recurrence and lymph node metastasis. Pay attention to facial nerve function and facial symmetry.
