Function-preserving surgery via single transverse cervical incision for Warthin's tumor in the parotid gland

Background This study evaluated functional and disease control outcomes after gland-preserving surgery via a single transverse cervical incision for Warthin's tumor of the parotid gland. Methods One-hundred eleven patients with Warthin's tumor underwent the preservation of most normal parotid tissues and the facial nerve combined with the en-bloc resection of tumors. Postoperative complications, subjective satisfaction, salivary function, and metachronous tumor were assessed in each patient. Results No patients had an extension to modified Blair or periauricular incision with the median operation time of 32 min. Temporary and permanent paralysis of the facial nerve was 5 (4.0%) and none of 125 tumor resection sides, respectively. Postoperative complications were minimal. The secretory functions between the affected and unaffected glands did not differ. One patient had metachronous tumor for a median follow-up of 72 months. Conclusion Functional gland-preserving surgery via single transverse cervical incision can safely treat Warthin's tumor in the parotid gland.