Application analysis of a modified retroauricular hairline incision in the resection of a benign parotid gland tumor.

[OBJECTIVES] This study aimed to evaluate the application value of a modified retroauricular hairline incision and a sternocleidomastoid flap with an inferior pedicle in the resection of benign parotid gland tumors.

[METHODS] Forty-eight patients with benign parotid gland tumors were retrospectively analyzed: 19 cases were included in the experimental group with an improved retroauricular hairline incision and a sternocleidomastoid flap with an inferior pedicle, and 29 cases were assigned in the control group with a modified facelift incision. Operation time, postoperative drainage, postoperative esthetic degree, and incidence of facial nerve paralysis, salivary fistula, and Frey's syndrome were compared.

[RESULTS] After the esthetic procedure, the average score of the experimental group was higher than that of the control group, and the esthetic effect of the former was better than that of the latter (<0.05). The incidence of the operation time, facial nerve paralysis, salivary fistula, and Frey's syndrome of both groups had no statistically significant differences (>0.05).

[CONCLUSIONS] The modified retroauricular hairline incision and sternocleidomastoid flap with an inferior pedicle can be applied to resect benign parotid gland tumors safely. It shows a better cosmetic effect and does not cause obvious postoperative complications. Therefore, it should be promoted for tumor treatments.