A deep lobe parotid tumor tending the facial nerve and its branches

Abstract

Benign tumors of major salivary glands commonly affect the parotid gland and it is rare when the tumor exclusively involves the deep lobe of the gland. The mainstay of treatment is surgical excision. Parotid surgeries carry a formidable risk of injury to the facial nerve. Hence, identification of extracranial part of facial nerve using many of its anatomical landmarks helps in preventing this daunting complication. There are instances where the facial nerve's morphometry is altered due to the location and extent of the tumor. A better knowledge of the anatomy and anticipation for these variations can result in a better outcome limiting the complications of the surgery.