Radical Resection of Malignant Tumors of Major Salivary Glands: Is This Possible?

Abstract

In primary therapy, a universally recognized surgical indication applies to all tumors of the salivary glands. According to the classic rule, radical resection of a head and neck tumor requires clean margins of at least 5 mm, although recent studies have shown that for certain locations, 1 mm may be sufficient. In the surgical resection of a tumor of the salivary glands, especially of the parotid gland, can these rules be respected? Owing to the complex branching and connections of the facial nerve within the parotid gland, even a medium-sized malignant tumor may be in contact with a branch of the nerve, thus raising the question of its preservation. The facial nerve is so important from a functional and aesthetic point of view that it is commonly believed that it should be preserved unless it is incorporated into the tumor. This is a compromise between an oncological resection, that is, the complete excision of the tumor with no residual cancer cells left behind, and quality of life. Almost all authors try to overcome this lack of radicality by indicating postoperative (chemo)radiotherapy. In this article, the pros and cons of nerve preservation will be analyzed by examining the published studies on this topic.