Transcervical Approach for Parapharyngeal Tumor Arising from the Deep Lobe of Parotid Gland: Case Report

Tumors of the parapharyngeal space (PPS) are rare, constituting 0.5%-1% of head and neck masses, with most being benign and originating from salivary glands. The PPS, an anatomically complex region, is divided into prestyloid and poststyloid compartments. Management of these tumors is challenging due to their location and potential impact on surrounding neurovascular structures. We report a 75-year-old female patient presenting with dysphagia, transient apnea, and mild conductive hearing loss. Examination revealed a submucosal mass on the left lateral oropharyngeal wall, displacing the soft palate and anterior tonsillar pillar. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) identified a 30 "55 " 62 mm mass arising from the deep lobe of the left parotid gland, confirmed as a pleomorphic adenoma by core biopsy. A transcervical approach was utilized for tumor resection. The procedure involved a transverse incision below the mandible, with care-ful identification and preservation of the carotid artery, internal jugular vein, and cranial nerves. The tumor was excised in total by dissecting around its capsule, ensuring minimal disruption to surrounding structures. Parapharyngeal space tumors present significant surgical challenges due to their anatomical complexity and proximity to critical structures. Magnetic resonance imaging provides essential preoperative information, guiding the surgical approach. The transcervical approach o#ers direct access to the inferior PPS, facilitating safe tumor removal and preservation of neurovascular integrity. This case underscores the importance of selecting an appropriate surgical technique basedb on tumor characteristics and location, with the transcervical approach being a reliable and safe technique.

Cite this article as: Kamshikoski I, Kopacheva -Barsova G, Nikola N, Trajkovska-Jovcevska A, Todorovska H, Karadjinova-Angelovska N. Transcervical approach for parapharyngeal tumor arising from the deep lobe of parotid gland: case report. Balkan ORL-HNS 2025;2(1):27-30.