Facial Nerve Sacrifice During Parotidectomy: A Cautionary Tale in Pathologic Diagnosis

The parotid gland harbors 85% of all salivary gland neoplasms. Though the majority of tumors are benign, complete surgical resection remains the mainstay of treatment. Along with adequate tumor removal, facial nerve preservation is a critical objective. Given the significant negative effects on quality of life following facial nerve sacrifice [1], every effort should be made to spare the nerve until conclusive evidence mandates its removal. Here we share observations from a case where facial nerve sacrifice was considered, but ultimately deferred due to lack of definitive intraoperative pathologic diagnosis.

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