Cross-sectional study on the occurrence of Frey's syndrome following superficial parotidectomy or extracapsular dissection

Abstract

Background: Most studies that examine postoperative outcomes after parotidectomy in patients with benign parotid gland tumors are based on retrospective chart reviews. Data about long-term results in patients with parotid gland surgery with patient contact are still sparsely published.

Methods: During the period of 1960-2005, a total of 127 patients underwent either extracapsular dissection (ECD) or superficial parotidectomy (SP) and were available for interview. Patients were questioned about their postoperative outcome after parotid gland surgery.

Results: The mean follow-up was 21.5 years. A total of 42 and 85 patients underwent ECD and SP, respectively. No significant differences were observed in the rates of permanent facial paralysis (SP 1.2% vs. ECD 7.1%; p = 0.1053) or recurrence (SP 4.7% vs. ECD 11.9%; p = 0.1557), and Frey's syndrome was diagnosed only after SP (10.6% vs. 0% after ECD, p = 0.0293). Frey's syndrome was detected more often compared to retrospective chart analysis.

Conclusion: We conclude that Frey's syndrome is underdiagnosed after SP without standardized follow-up examinations. Long-term follow-up should be applied to detect and treat gustatory sweating.

Keywords: Extracapsular dissection; Frey's syndrome; Long-term follow-up; Parotid gland surgery; Postoperative complications; Superficial parotidectomy.