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Objective: To explore the selection, efficacy and application of indications for parapharyngeal space tumor resection assisted by plasma and HD endoscopic system through oral approach. Methods: The clinical data of 23 patients with parapharyngeal space tumor resection assisted by plasma and HD endoscopic system were retrospectively analyzed in Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical University from January 2013 to June 2023. All cases were examined by high-resolution CT and MRI before operation, and some cases were examined by CTA or DSA. During the operation, the high definition nasal endoscopic recording system was assisted, and low temperature plasma knife was used in some cases. The follow-up time was from 3 to 115 months, and the median follow-up time was 45 months. Results: There were no deaths in this group. All patients had complete tumor resection. The maximum tumor diameter was as follows: （5.20±1.00） cm, the operation time was（128.70±46.67） min, and the average blood loss was（80.87±32.74） mL. One case of vascular smooth muscle tumor had more bleeding during the operation and was assisted by tracheotomy after operation. One case of nourishing vascular bleeding after operation of giant Schwannoma was investigated and hemostasis + external carotid artery ligation. Bleeding in the remaining cases was below 120 mL. Postoperative pathologies were all benign tumors, including 11 pleomorphic adenoma, 4 schwannoma, 2 base cell adenoma, 1 epidermoid cyst, 1 lymphatic cyst with infection, 1 angiomyoma, 1 solitary fibroma, 1 salivary gland cyst, and 1 tendon giant cell tumor. All patients were followed up. One patient originating from vagal schwannoma had 2-month vocal cord paralysis and 1 recurrence（recurrence of the skull base of schwannoma）. Conclusion: Oral approach assisted by plasma and high-definition endoscopic system is suitable for partial selective resection of benign tumors in parapharyngeal space, which has the advantages of less trauma and rapid recovery. When the tumor is blood-rich, suspected to be malignant, the top of the tumor is deep into the cranial base nerve canal,located outside the internal carotid artery, and larger than 6.0 cm considering pleomorphic adenoma, it is recommended to conduct an external open or auxiliary cervical small incision approach., Competing Interests: The authors of this article and the planning committee members and staff have no relevant financial relationships with commercial interests to disclose., (Copyright© by the Editorial Department of Journal of Clinical Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery.)

Objective: This study aimed to analyse the outcomes of surgery for pleomorphic adenoma of the parapharyngeal space in relation to the surgical approach., Method: This was a single-centre retrospective data analysis conducted from January 2008 to December 2020 on all patients who underwent operation for pleomorphic adenoma originating from the parapharyngeal space., Results: Twenty-one patients with a mean age of 52.6 years were included. The transparotid-transcervical approach was the most common (52.4 per cent, n = 11) surgical approach, followed by transoral robotic surgery (28.6 per cent, n = 6) and conventional transoral surgery (19 per cent, n = 4). Post-operative complications included nine cases of transient partial facial nerve palsy and two cases of Frey's syndrome after the transparotid-transcervical approach and 2 cases of transient trismus and 1 pharyngeal wound dehiscence in the conventional transoral approach group. Complete macroscopic excision was always achieved, and no recurrence occurred during follow up., Conclusion: These three approaches can provide adequate tumour visualisation, a high rate of clear excisional margins and an acceptable morbidity.

Purpose: The aim of this study is to identify certain parapharyngeal space tumours with specific characteristics that can be treated successfully through an endoscopically assisted transoral approach (EATA)., Methods: Nine patients with PPS tumours underwent surgery through an EATA between 2003 and 2021. All patients underwent clinical examination and fibrolaryngoscopy. Preoperative CT and/or MRI was performed on all patients., Results: All the patients were successfully treated through an endoscopically assisted transoral approach. Histological examination revealed five pleomorphic adenomas, two schwannomas, one ectopic thyroid gland and one lipoma. The only long-term sequelae observed was Horner syndrome in the two schwannomas arising from the carotid space. The mean hospitalisation time was 2.6 days, while the mean follow-up time was of 9.7 years., Conclusions: An endoscopically assisted transoral approach (EATA) is a valid technique for treating benign capsulated tumours of the true PPS and some benign capsulated tumours of the superomedial aspect of the carotid space.

Competing Interests: Conflict of interest None.

Introduction: Parapharyngeal space salivary gland tumors are very rare. The authors sought to examine the clinical features, treatment methods, and treatment results of parapharyngeal space salivary gland tumors in our hospital., Methods: The authors retrospectively enrolled 15 patients who were finally diagnosed as having parapharyngeal space salivary gland tumors from January 2010 to January 2021., Results: All parapharyngeal space salivary gland tumors arose from the prestyloid compartment. This study included 3 males and 12 females. The main symptoms were incidental diagnosis during imaging tests, followed by neck discomfort, oral mass, neck mass, and headache. Surgical methods for parapharyngeal space salivary gland tumors were performed in the following order: transcervical approach (n = 10), transcervical-parotid approach (n = 3), transoral approach (n = 1), and transparotid approach (n = 1). Pleomorphic adenoma was the most common tumor among parapharyngeal space salivary gland tumors., Conclusions: In the surgery of parapharyngeal space salivary gland tumors, a transcervical or transcervical-parotid approach was mainly used by predicting the origin site through radiologic examinations., Competing Interests: The authors report no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2022 by Mutaz B. Habal, MD.)

Purpose: The aim of this study has been to describe our experience with pleomorphic adenomas of the parapharyngeal space (PPS) treated with trans-oral robotic surgery (TORS). Tumors arising from the PPS comprise less than 0.5% of all head and neck tumors. Salivary gland tumors account for 40% to 50% of PPS lesions with pleomorphic adenomas representing the most common salivary tumors (80%-90%). Parapharyngeal space tumors cause nonspecific symptoms and may be difficult to diagnose., Methods: In our study a preoperative diagnosis was conducted by fine needle aspiration biopsy and magnetic resonance imaging and the results were used to plan the correct surgical approach., Results: In all cases we were able to employ TORS, a minimally invasive procedure that allows us to operate in narrow and anatomically complex spaces that we can only reach thanks to the use of well-articulated hand pieces., Conclusions: This report indicates that TORS is a safe surgical procedure for the excision of benign tumors of the PPS in selected cases., Competing Interests: The authors report no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2022 by Mutaz B. Habal, MD.)

Purpose: Parapharyngeal space neoplasms (PSNs) are rare tumors of the head and neck region. In this study, we report our institutional experience with PSNs over a 27-years period., Methods: Patients treated between 1992 and 2018 were identified through our tumor board database. Data concerning demographics, clinical presentation, disease features, treatment, complications and follow-up were obtained retrospectively., Results: In total, 48 patients were identified. Most patients had benign tumors (67.5%), with pleomorphic adenoma and schwannoma being the most frequent entities. Malignant tumors represented the remaining 32.5% of neoplasms. Concerning tissue of origin, 67.5% of neoplasms originated from salivary glands and 17.5% were neurogenic. The vast majority of PSNs required open surgical approaches (77%). The most frequent reversible and irreversible complications included paralysis of facial, vagal, and hypoglossal nerves (transient 62.5%, permanent 31.3%). Tumor recurrences occurred in 16.7% of our patients., Conclusion: Neoplasms of the parapharyngeal space (PPS) are rare. In our series, consistent with the literature, most patients had benign tumors. Fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) and/or transoral biopsy in selected cases combined with radiographic imaging are helpful to plan the optimal approach (open/transoral) and extent of primary surgery. Close follow-up in malignant neoplasms is crucial to assess recurrence early. We present one of the largest recent studies on PPS tumors treated in a center. Given the low incidence of these tumors, our results contribute to the existing sparse evidence regarding the management and outcome of such tumors., (© 2021. The Author(s).)

Abstract: Parapharyngeal space tumors are rare tumors that make up about 0.5% to 1% of all head and neck neoplasms. The majority of parapharyngeal space tumors, which are usually benign, consist of salivary gland tumors and neurogenic tumors. Although the transcervical, transparotid or transmandibular approach is generally preferred for the excision of these tumors, the transoral approach, which is more advantageous in terms of cosmetics and function, can be applied in selected cases. This article presents a case in which the giant pleomorphic adenoma originating from the deep lobe of the parotid gland is removed by transoral approach., Competing Interests: The authors report no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2020 by Mutaz B. Habal, MD.)

Introduction: Standardized systemic treatment options are lacking for carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma, which is a rare and aggressive tumor primarily found in salivary glands.Here we report the case of a 63-year-old male with carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma of the left parotid and parapharyngeal space harboring a neurotrophic receptor tyrosine kinase (NTRK) 2 fusion who was treated with a small molecule inhibitor that targets the tropomyosin receptor kinase (TRK) proteins. To the best of our knowledge, no similar case has been described in the literature so far., Patient Concerns: After multiple surgical resections and radiotherapy for localized cancer disease over several years, our patient again developed an increasing swelling and pain around the left ear and numbness of the left half of the face., Diagnosis: Magnetic resonance imaging and positron emission tomography/computed tomography scans showed tumor recurrence in the left parotid, below the left ear, and in the parapharyngeal space, as well as metastases of the lungs and cervical lymph nodes. As data on the efficacy of systemic therapies for inoperable carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma are scarce, we performed a next-generation sequencing that revealed the presence of a hitherto unknown NTRK2 fusion., Interventions: Treatment with the TRK inhibitor larotrectinib was initiated, which induced rapid symptom improvement. However, part of the tumor had to be removed shortly afterwards due to local progression. Molecular testing did not demonstrate any alterations accounting for resistance to larotrectinib, with maintenance of the NTRK2 fusion., Outcomes: Three months later, imaging confirmed mixed response. While the reason for this remains unknown, the patient is in good condition and continues to receive larotrectinib., Conclusion: It remains unclear why our patient showed mixed response to larotrectinib and further studies are needed to explore other possible mechanisms of resistance., Competing Interests: The authors have no conflicts of interests to disclose., (Copyright © 2021 the Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.)

Tumors of the parapharyngeal space (PPS) are rare, most originate from salivary and neurogenic tissues, and most are benign. However, there are some rarer masses in the PPS, with just a few published reports in the literature worldwide, and we may not consider them in the differential diagnosis of PPS neoplasms. We report three cases of rare masses in the PPS: Warthin's tumor, branchial cleft cyst, and carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma. The three patients were admitted to our department with complaints of painless swelling in the lower side of the right face or a long history of snoring; diagnoses were confirmed histopathologically. An endoscopy-assisted transoral approach was used that allowed wide visibility for safe resection and resulted in a short hospitalization time and good functional and cosmetic outcomes. All patients have been followed to the current time, and there have been no recurrences. The transoral endoscopy-assisted approach appears to be safe, effective, and less invasive for excision of masses in the PPS.

Background: Tumors in the parapharyngeal space are rare, and preoperative diagnosis is difficult because of anatomical and histological complexity., Methods: To evaluate the usefulness of preoperative diagnosis, we compared the classification of tumor localization in the prestyloid and retrostyloid compartments by imaging and preoperative cytological diagnosis by fine-needle aspiration cytology with the postoperative histopathological diagnosis in 120 patients with tumors in the parapharyngeal space., Results: Tumors were located in the prestyloid and retrostyloid compartments in 68 and 52 patients, respectively. The majority of histopathological diagnoses in the prestyloid and retrostyloid compartments were pleomorphic adenoma and schwannoma, respectively. All malignant tumors were in the prestyloid compartment. The preoperative cytological diagnostic rate for benign or malignant tumor was 95.2%, which was not inferior to that for other head and neck lesions., Conclusion: Our results suggested that the preoperative classification of tumor localization and cytological diagnosis improved the accuracy of presumptive diagnosis., (© 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

Objective: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides important information regarding tumors in the parapharyngeal space (PPS), revealing their origin, whether they are benign or malignant, and their relationships with surrounding structures., Methods: Twelve tumors in the PPS were completely excised using an endoscopically assisted transoral approach (EATA). The MRI features were analyzed., Results: Ten pleomorphic adenomas confirmed on postoperative pathological examination had the parotid pedicle sign. A fat space between the tumor and parotid gland may distinguish such a tumor from a tumor arising from a minor salivary gland in the prestyloid space and a tumor arising from the deep lobe of the parotid gland. Both the jugular vein and carotid artery were displaced posteriorly in all 10 cases of pleomorphic adenomas. The principal features of the two schwannomas confirmed on postoperative pathological examination were separation of the internal carotid artery and internal jugular vein and anteromedial displacement of the internal carotid artery, suggesting that the tumors originated in the poststyloid space. In this review, 95 tumors were excised by the EATA in the English-language literature., Conclusions: MRI renders differential diagnosis possible. PPS tumors may be completely excised via an EATA guided by tumor features evident on preoperative MRI.

Objective: To analyze the clinical characters and surgical treatment of primary parapharyngeal space (PPS) tumors. Methods: A total of 23 cases of primary PPS tumors which were treated from November 2011 to December 2017 were included for the retrospective analysis in this study. Results: Twenty-three cases of patients with primary PPS tumors were analyzed in this study. Surgical approach was as follows: transcervial approach applied in 7 cases, transparotid approach in 4 cases, transoral approach in 2 cases, transmandibular approach in 4 cases, and the combined approaches on 6 cases. Besides, among 7 cases with upper PPS tumor, we applied the surgical navigation system in the surgery of 3 cases. The mean surgery duration of these cases, 3.5 h, was shorter than unused ones, while the mean maximum size (MMS) of tumors, 5.7 cm, was also larger. So far, 23 cases had no recurrence and metastasis. The most frequent histopathological type of all the cases was pleomorphic adenoma (8 cases), followed by Schwannoma (5 cases). With an 8-to-72-months follow up, 23 cases had no recurrence, metastasis or death. Conclusions: Surgical resection is preferred in the treatment of PPS tumors. In the upper PPS tumor cases, the surgical navigation system could reduce the operative duration significantly and is more suitable for larger tumors.

Objective: Various surgical approaches have been described to remove tumours in the parapharyngeal space. This study investigated the feasibility of a transoral approach in the surgical management of parapharyngeal space benign tumours located in the medial portion of the carotid sheaths and extending toward the skull base., Methods: Thirty-two patients were selected and underwent a transoral or an endoscope-assisted transoral approach in the surgical management of parapharyngeal space benign tumours located in the medial portion of the carotid sheaths. Medical photographs were used., Results: All patients underwent complete resection of their lesions via a transoral or endoscope-assisted transoral approach. None of the patients demonstrated residual or recurrent neoplasms, either clinically or radiographically, during their follow up., Conclusion: Based on our studies, we assert that transoral and endoscope-assisted transoral approaches are suitable in managing parapharyngeal space benign tumours located in the medial portion of the carotid sheaths and extending toward the skull base.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of the resection of parapharyngeal space (PPS) tumors via an endoscopic transoral approach. We reviewed 9 patients who were diagnosed with PPS tumors and who were treated with an endoscopic transoral approach. PPS tumors ranging from 2.5 to 6 cm were removed completely with no complications and excellent recovery (mean inpatient hospital stay: 6.89 days). Pathology was pleomorphic adenoma (n = 7), schwannoma (n = 1) and malignant pleomorphic adenoma (n = 1). For the malignant lesion, the patient underwent postoperative radiotherapy (70 Gy). There was no radiographic evidence of recurrences, with mean follow-up of 11.22 months (range: 3 to 20). We conclude that resection of PPS tumors via an endoscopic transoral approach appears to be feasible, safe, and effective. Potential advantages of this approach include an excellent surgical view, rapid surgical access, less tissue injury, avoidance of external scar, fewer postoperative complications, and less morbidity.

Objectives: The cervical approach to parapharyngeal space tumors is blind in cases involving an approach to the vicinity of the skull base from below. We therefore devised a procedure to improve the safety of surgery in the vicinity of the skull base., Methods: With this surgical technique, the temporal branch from the main trunk is first identified, as in the case of parotid gland tumor surgery. We then approach the skull base by entering the posterior aspect of the parotid gland tissue from above the temporal branch and anterior auricular space, allowing clear visual confirmation of the upper part of the tumor. Combining this approach with the conventional cervical approach, which is used for the lower part, the tumor can be separated from top to bottom., Results: We have applied this combined approach in eight patients to date, and post-operative courses have been good, with no cases of facial paralysis., Conclusion: This modified cervical-parotid approach offers a very useful surgical procedure for parapharyngeal space tumors with respect to preservation of the facial nerve and tumor separation in the vicinity of the skull base.

Background: Carcinoma ex-pleomorphic adenoma of the parapharyngeal space is an exceedingly rare entity., Methods: The clinical records of two patients with primary carcinoma ex-pleomorphic adenoma of the parapharyngeal space surgically treated at two different centers were retrospectively analyzed., Results: Despite ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration cytology and magnetic resonance imaging, the correct diagnosis was preoperatively missed in both cases. Excision was obtained through a transcervical-transparotid approach in 1 case and a minimally-invasive endoscopic-assisted transcervical approach in the other. Definitive histology was consistent with intracapsular carcinoma ex-pleomorphic adenoma. Adjuvant radiotherapy was performed in the case with macroscopic malignant degeneration; both patients are alive and free from disease 36 months after surgery., Conclusions: Carcinoma ex-pleomorphic adenoma of the parapharyngeal space is a rare disease, and definitive diagnosis may be challenging. Surgery is the mainstay of treatment, but adjuvant radiotherapy also may be required in the presence of specific risk factors.

Background: Resection of the parapharyngeal space is often challenging. This study aims to evaluate the outcome of the endoscopy-assisted transoral approach for resection of the parapharyngeal space tumors compared with the endoscopy-assisted transcervical approach., Methods: Twenty-three consecutive patients (15 males, 8 females) who underwent resection of large parapharyngeal space tumors via endoscopy-assisted transoral (ETO) approach or endoscopy-assisted transcervical minimal incision plus osteotomy of the vertical ramus outside the mandibular foramen (ETC + MO) approach were analyzed retrospectively., Results: The tumors in ETO group are benign; there are 2 patients with adenoid cystic carcinoma and 1 patient with recurrent pleomorphic adenoma in ETC + MO group. All of the tumors were removed completely and without rupture. No major complications developed in any patient. Temporary facial paresis occurred in 1 patient in the ETC + MO group, which resolved spontaneously within 8 weeks. The cosmetic effects of all patients in ETO groups and 10 patients in ETC + MO groups were excellent. Patients were followed up for 7 to 26 months, no recurrence was encountered., Conclusion: ETO and ETC + MO approach in resection of large parapharyngeal space tumors are feasible and safe technique that achieve excellent aesthetic and functional results. Endoscopy-assisted transoral approach can shorten hospitalized time and avoid the risk of marginal mandibular nerve injury and ETC + MO approach may be used in malignant or recurrent parapharyngeal space tumors.

Introduction and Objectives: The aim of this study is to present our experience with the diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for parapharyngeal space tumours., Patients and Method: This study is a retrospective review of 90 patients diagnosed with tumours of the parapharyngeal space and treated surgically between 1984 and 2015. Patients whose tumours were not primary but invaded the parapharyngeal space expanding from another region, tumours originating in the deep lobe of the parotid gland and head and neck metastasis were excluded from this study., Results: 74% percent of the parapharyngeal space neoplasms were benign and 26% were malignant. Pleomorphic adenoma was the most common neoplasm (27%), followed by paragangliomas (25%), miscellaneous malignant tumours (16%), neurogenic tumours (12%), miscellaneous benign tumours (10%), and malignant salivary gland tumours (10%). The transcervical approach was used in 56 cases, cervical-transparotid approach in 15 cases, type A infratemporal fossa approach in 13 cases, transmandibular approach in 4 cases and transoral approach in 2 cases. The most common complications were those deriving from nervous injuries., Conclusions: Most parapharyngeal space tumours can be removed surgically with a low rate of complications and recurrence. The transcervical approach is the most frequently used., (Copyright © 2016 Elsevier España, S.L.U. and Sociedad Española de Otorrinolaringología y Cirugía de Cabeza y Cuello. All rights reserved.)

Surgical removal of head-neck vascular neoplasms may have severe complications, although surgery remains a very important treatment modality. One of the most important aspects is to avoid the rupture of the tumor's capsule and to minimize functional complications, especially in the excision of benign tumors. The transoral robotic surgery allows removing lesions in challenging anatomical areas. Furthermore, the current robotic instrumentation does not allow a fine dissection of the structures and capsule rupture is a potential event. Here, the authors describe a minimally invasive technique using transoral robotic surgery for removal of vascular tumors in head-neck. Particular attention was given to the description of the diagnostic work up, the preoperative assessment and the surgical steps. No complications were encountered postoperatively. Transoral robotic surgery for vascular tumors appears to be a safe and feasible technique with minimal complications.

Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the current use of transoral robotic surgery (TORS) in the treatment of parapharyngeal space (PPS) neoplasms through a case series and systematic analysis., Methods: A case series review of 4 patients was combined with a PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus search that identified 82 reports. Fifty-three articles remained after screening for duplicates, finally, 8 reports with adequate patient data were included. Statistical analyses and graphical representations were performed with Microsoft Excel (Redmond, WA) and GraphPad Prism software (La Jolla, CA)., Results: Forty-four patients had TORS resection of PPS neoplasms. Overall, mean length of stay was 3.0 days with mean time to oral diet of 1.0 day. There were no recurrences but there was a mean follow-up time of only 18.5 months. Twenty-nine of these neoplasms (65.9%) were pleomorphic adenomas of which 7 (24%) had unintended capsule violation or tumor fragmentation during surgery and 2 patients had pharyngeal dehiscence that was managed conservatively. There were no neurovascular complications., Conclusion: TORS is a viable approach to resection of neoplasms of the PPS with minimal surgical morbidity. However, further long-term evaluation, especially for pleomorphic adenomas, is needed to define patient selection and the role of TORS for PPS salivary gland neoplasms., (© 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

Background: Parapharyngeal space (PPS) tumors are rare tumors for which the surgical management differs widely. The purpose of this study was to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the endoscope-assisted transoral approach over the traditional approaches., Methods: This prospective study included 4 patients who were diagnosed with PPS tumors and treated with the endoscope-assisted transoral approach., Results: The endoscope-assisted transoral approach described here safely allowed for the resection of benign neoplasms with high surgical view to the parapharyngeal neurovascular structures. The average tumor size was 42 mm. Three patients had isolated PPS tumors, and 1 patient had a tumor originating from the deep lobe of the parotid gland. The postoperative histopathological diagnosis of the patients was pleomorphic adenoma for 3 of the patients, and marginal zone and follicular hyperplasia for the other., Conclusion: This technique provided less operative trauma, a more comfortable postoperative period, and, most importantly, increased operative exposure., (© 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

We have evaluated the outcomes of endoscopically-assisted resection of large benign tumours of the parapharyngeal space by an intraoral approach. Six patients with primary benign tumours were treated in this way. The lesions were pleomorphic adenomas, Warthin's tumour, and schwannoma. The sizes of the tumours varied from 4×4 cm to 7×7 cm. All tumours were removed completely without rupture and without damage to the facial nerve. No patient developed any permanent postoperative complications such as damage to the facial nerve, salivary fistula, or limited mouth opening. The cosmetic effects were excellent. The patients were followed up for 8 to 21 months without recurrence. Endoscopically-assisted transoral resection of large benign tumours of the parapharyngeal space is a simple and safe technique that achieves excellent aesthetic and functional results., (Copyright © 2014 The British Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Pleomorphic adenoma (PA) is a rare benign tumor in the pharynx. We presented a case with a huge PA in the pharynx. MRI displayed oropharyngeal mass, considering benign tumor. Preoperative fine-needle aspiration and cytology biopsy were important to confirm the diagnosis of PA preliminary. Extracapsular complete dissection for PA was performed under general anesthesia with tracheotomy subsequently. Postoperative histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of PA. The patient was discharged a week after operation and no recurrence was found in the following 8 months.

It is relatively difficult to gain surgical access to pleomorphic adenomas of the parapharyngeal space. Since the lateral border is the mandible, gaining access to them can put several important neurovascular structures at risk. A number of surgical approaches have been developed to overcome this difficulty, and each has its advantages and disadvantages. We report the case of a 59-year-old woman with a parapharyngeal-space pleomorphic adenoma that was accessed via a transoral approach. Transoral approaches are controversial and rarely used. However, we feel that for a selected group of tumors, this approach provides clear benefits by decreasing cosmetic and functional disability while providing good surgical access to the tumor.

Background: Head and Neck Parapharyngeal space tumors are rare. Pleomorphic Adenomas are the most common Parapharyngeal space tumors. The purpose of this study was to define preoperative criteria for enabling full extirpation of parapharyngeal space pleomorphic adenomas via the transcervical approach while minimizing functional and cosmetic morbidity., Methods: The surgical records and medical charts of 19 females and 10 males with parapharyngeal space pleomorphic adenomas operated between 1993 and 2012 were reviewed., Results: Fifteen patients were operated by a simple transcervical approach, 13 by a transparotid transcervical approach, and one by a transmandibular transcervical approach. Complications included facial nerve paralysis, infection, hemorrhage and first bite syndrome. There were three recurrences, but neither recurrence nor complications were associated with the type of surgical approach., Conclusion: A simple transcervical approach is preferred for parapharyngeal space pleomorphic adenomas with narrow attachments to the deep lobe of the parotid gland and for pleomorphic adenomas originating in a minor salivary gland within the parapharyngeal space.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess imaging findings of parapharyngeal space (PPS) pleomorphic adenoma (PA) in comparison with parotid gland (PG) PA retrospectively., Materials and Methods: Ten patients with PPS PAs and 66 with PG PAs were included. CT and MR images were reviewed for the size, presence of calcification or cystic degeneration, and MR signal intensity of solid components., Results: The maximum diameter was greater in PPS PA (57.3 ± 11.4 mm) than in PG PA (28.7 ± 20.8 mm) (p < 0.01). The frequency of calcification was higher in PPS PA (50 %) than in PG PA (15 %) (p < 0.05). The frequency of cystic degeneration was marginally higher in PPS PA (60 %) than in PG PA (29 %) (p = 0.058). On T2-weighted images, solid components of PPS and PG PAs showed hyperintensity in 40 and 54 %, isointensity in 50 and 32 %, and hypointensity in 10 and 14 %, respectively., Conclusion: The size and the frequency of calcification or cystic degeneration were higher in PPS PAs than in PG PAs. Radiologists should recognize the difference in imaging features between PPS and PG PAs.

Introduction: Pleomorphic adenoma (PA) is found rarely in the parapharyngeal space (PPS). Because of late diagnosis due to slow growth, close proximity to vital neurovascular structures and risks of surgery, it poses a great difficulty for both diagnosis and surgical management. The preferred surgical approach to the PPS is the cervical-transparotid including a total parotidectomy with facial nerve preservation combined with a cervical access for dissection of cranial nerves and vascular structures thus allowing a safe removal of the tumor together with the parotid deep lobe. We report herein our experience in the management of giant PAs involving the prestyloid PPS and describe a not well-documented transparotid route by preservation of the parotid superficial lobe in combination with an intraoral approach., Patients and Methods: In this retrospective study, three cases of patients having giant PAs involving the PPS are evaluated. All patients had signs of foreign body sensation in the throat and a growing mass bulging in the oropharynx. Diagnosis was based on MRI and upon preoperative intraoral biopsy. The average tumor size was 5.7 cm. Patients underwent surgery and excision of tumors via transparotid-intraoral approach. In two cases, the superficial lobe was preserved and afterwards put back in its anatomic location., Results: All patients were discharged without complications, and no recurrences were observed., Conclusions: Preoperative diagnosis management of PPS giant tumors should be based on imaging and upon open transoral biopsy if possible. The transparotid-intraoral approach provided adequate visibility to remove large PAs involving the prestyloid PPS.

Introduction: Parapharyngeal space tumors are rare and represent from 0.5% to 1% of all head and neck tumors. Benign tumors occur in about 80% of all cases and the remaining 20% are malignant tumors. Most of the tumors derive from salivary glands or neural tissue (about 75%), the next 25% have other histopathological origin. Because of poor, late signs and symptoms, and difficult surgical approaches, the tumors of this region are a diagnostical and surgical challenge for every doctor., The Aim of Study: Epidemiological and clinical analysis of patients with benign tumors of the parapharyngeal space., Material and Methods: Includes a retrospective analysis of 16 patients hospitalized and treated at the ENT Clinic of the Warsaw Medical University between 2001 and 2010 with confirmed benign tumors of the parapharyngeal space. The data from medical records contain informations about signs and symptoms, diagnostic techniques, surgical approaches, complications and histopathological results., Conclusions: The most frequently reported symptoms included: discomfort and a sensation of a foreign body in the throat. Some patients complained about having difficulty swallowing, hearing problems, and hoarseness. In most cases, the tumor remained symptomless and was discovered only during medical examination. The clinical symptoms usually included a tumor in the throat and/or the neck. To precisely determine the location and nature of the tumor, and its relationship to adjacent structures, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging were performed (and angiography in a few cases). All patients received surgical treatment. The type of surgical approach depended on the location of the tumor, its size and relationship to large vessels and nerves. Usually, it was transcervical and transparotid approach. In one case, combined transoral-transcervical approach was used with lateral mandibulectomy. In the histopathological examination, tumors had mainly originated from a part of the salivary gland and nerve tissue., (Copyright © 2011 Polish Otolaryngology Society. Published by Elsevier Urban & Partner (Poland). All rights reserved.)

This study was undertaken to evaluate and concentrate on the recurrent pleomorphic adenomas (PAs) of the parapharyngeal space. The records of 9 patients treated for recurrent PAs occupying parapharyngeal space were retrospectively reviewed. The study population comprised 6 women and 3 men with a mean age of 51 (range, 35-79 years). Before the first revision surgery, imaging studies and clinical examinations showed 1 solitary mass in 4 patients, 2 solitary masses in 3 patients, and 3 or more masses in 2 patients. After first revision surgery, 4 patients had rerecurrences with multinodular disease. Two of 4 patients underwent radiation therapy (RT), and the other 2 patients underwent second revision surgery, among whom 1 patient underwent third revision surgery, and the other one was also submitted to RT. Overall, 12 reoperations were performed, and at the end of all operations, 4 patients had rerecurrences and residual disease. In conclusion, we recommend RT to patients with multinodular disease, known tumor spillage, and residual tumor in addition to revision surgery. Histopathologic features, surgical resection, relationship to surrounding vital tissues, and postoperative adjuvant radiotherapy are the most important determinants for recurrent PAs.

Parapharyngeal tumors account for 0.5% of head and neck tumors. They are difficult to diagnose because they have few symptoms and are surgically inaccessible. This retrospective study included 61 patients with parapharyngeal space tumors, treated in the last 20 years. The data, obtained from the medical records, included symptoms and clinical signs, diagnostic procedures, surgical approach, postoperative complications and histopathological findings. The most common symptoms were dysphagia, foreign body sensation, pain, and symptom-free patients. For precise tumor localization and its relation to adjacent structures, computerized tomography, magnetic resonance imaging and contrast angiography were used. All the patients were treated surgically. The commonest surgical approach was transcervical, followed by transoral and combined transcervical-transoral. Histopathological examination verified that the origin of these tumors was most frequently salivary or neurogenic., (Copyright © 2010 International Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Objective: The parapharyngeal space (PS) is defined as the deepest space in the neck and it consists of the pre- and post-styloid regions. PS tumors originating in these regions are thought to dislocate the carotid artery (CA) in either the posterior or anterior direction. To determine the precise anatomy of the PS and its relationship with the CA in diagnostic images, we conducted cadaveric and imagining analysis., Materials and Methods: We examined the posterior and lateral aspects of the PS in three cadavers. We also examined 17 patients who suffered from PS tumors, in which the carotid artery was dislocated (CA), then compared the results with surgical and pathological findings., Results: The anterior part of the PS was mainly composed of fatty tissue and is generally referred to as the pre-styloid region of the PS. In the posterior of this fatty region, blood vessels and nerves were tightly covered with muscles and adjacent fascias to form a compact musculo-fascial structure containing the CA, jugular vein, vagal, glossopharyngeal, accessory and sympathetic nerves, and a portion of the hypoglossal nerves. The hypoglossal nerves emerged from the hypoglossal canal posterior to this structure and coursed behind it, entering it at the upper third of the PS. These anatomical findings indicated that the PS was actually comprises of three regions. Image analysis showed that the CA was dislocated in the postero-lateral direction by a pleomorphic adenoma originating from the parotid gland and by a trigeminal schwannoma, both of which were pre-styloid tumors. On the other hand, the post-styloid tumors did not always dislocate the CA in the anterior direction. Tumors that developed within the musculo-fascial structure such as those of the carotid body tumor or sympathetic nerve schwannoma dislocated the CA from both the antero- to the postero-lateral directions. A hypoglossal nerve schwannoma originating from the most posterior part of the PS, which was behind the musculo-fascial structure dislocated the CA in the anterior direction., Conclusion: The present findings indicated that the post-styloid region of the PS is considered to consist of two regions. As the CA is a component of this musculo-fascial structure, tumors originating from it that are defined as post-styloid did not always displace the CA in the anterior direction. Such anatomical recognition is helpful for diagnostic imaging of PS tumors., (Copyright 2010 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Objective: We report a new approach to benign parapharyngeal space tumours: a single, subcondylar mandibular osteotomy., Method: Case report and review of the world literature concerning parapharyngeal space access and the various types of mandibular osteotomy., Results: The use of a single, subcondylar mandibular osteotomy achieves good exposure and satisfactory aesthetic and functional results, using a simple, easily performed technique that is fast and has minimal morbidity. In addition, this technique preserves the submandibular gland and avoids lip-splitting and post-operative intermaxillary fixation., Conclusion: To our knowledge, this is the first report of this approach to the parapharyngeal space. We propose this approach as the first choice for resection of benign neoplasms of the parapharyngeal space.

Tumors originating in the parapharyngeal space are rare; they comprise approximately 0.5% of head and neck tumors. Most (70-80%) are benign and the most frequent origins are salivary and neurogenic. The aim of this study is to present the surgical procedures used for the treatment of 13 patients with parapharyngeal space tumors; 11 of them were suffering from benign tumors (the most frequent being pleomorphic adenoma; 8 cases) and 2 from malignant lesions. The following surgical approaches were used: intraoral (2 cases), transcervical (4 cases) and transmandibular (7 cases) with different types of mandible osteotomies. The type of surgical approach was dictated by the type of the lesion (malignant or benign), the exact location, the size, the vascularity and the relation of the tumor to the neck neurovascular bundle. In all cases the selected surgical approach allowed the complete resection of the tumor, obtaining clear margins in cases of malignancy, without adding to the patient's preoperative morbidity. It was concluded that the surgical approach to the parapharyngeal space tumors must be adjusted to the tumor characteristics and be as wide is necessary to achieve its complete removal with safety.

Objectives/hypothesis: To evaluate the treatment results of pleomorphic adenoma (PA) of the parapharyngeal space at a single institution during a 30-year period., Study Design: A retrospective review., Methods: This study was performed by examining the records and reviewing the pathology of 44 patients with PA of the parapharyngeal space treated at a single medical center from January 1975 to November 2005., Results: Of the 44 patients with PA, 35 patients underwent 38 excisions. Eleven men and 27 women were treated surgically. Follow-up varied from 24 months to 180 months. There were three recurrences in two patients. Recurrence rates at 5 and 10 years were equal at 7.9%. Gender, age, tumor volume, surgical approach, pathologic surgical margin status, and prior resections were evaluated for significant prognostic factors. Advanced age proved a poor prognostic indicator (P < .05). History of prior resection (P < .01) was significant for recurrence. Positive surgical margins (P = .69) proved a negative association., Conclusions: We report low recurrence rates in this patient population with two important prognostic indicators. History of prior resection is significant to predict recurrence. Interestingly, positive surgical margins are actually shown not to effect risk of recurrence. Local recurrence of the tumor is associated with further recurrence and less favorable prognosis.

We report a very unusual presentation of simultaneous pleomorphic adenomas of 2 different locations, hard palate and parapharyngeal space. Patient age of presentation is rare because these tumors are seen in younger patients. We treated a 70-year-old woman with these 2 tumors, resecting both lesions with intraoral and cervical approaches. Pleomorphic adenomas are frequent lesions, but in the literature reviewed, we have not found articles reporting 2 simultaneous pleomorphic adenomas of these locations. Complete surgical resection is very important to avoid recurrences.

Purpose: This study evaluated parapharyngeal-space (PPS) tumors in regard to clinical pathological features, preoperative assessment, surgical approaches, perioperative complications, and patterns of recurrence., Patients and Methods: We performed a retrospective review of patients with PPS tumors referred to the stomatological hospitals of Sichuan University and Xi'an Jiaotong University between 1990 and 2004., Results: Beginning in 1990 and ending in 2004, 162 patients with PPS tumors were evaluated in our unit. The gender distribution was 94 (58.08%) males and 68 (41.98%) females. The median age was 36.4 years. The main presenting symptom was neck swelling. All cases were evaluated with at least a computed tomography scan. The most common class of lesion was salivary-gland neoplasm, accounting for 74 cases (45.68%). The next most common group of tumors was neurogenic, representing 68 cases (41.98%). Only 22 patients (13.58%) presented with malignant disease. Three surgical approaches were commonly used in the management of these lesions: transcervical-transparotid in 93 patients (57.41%), transcervical in 51 patients (31.48%), and transcervical-transmandibular in 18 patients (11.11%). Twenty patients with malignant disease underwent adjuvant chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy. All cases were followed for a mean of 36 months. There was no perioperative mortality. Two patients suffered local failure, and 4 patients developed distant metastasis during the observation period., Conclusions: Surgery is the mainstay treatment for PPS tumors. Surgical approaches were dictated by size of the tumor, its location, its relationship to the great vessels, and suspicion of malignancy. The most common approach was transcervical-transparotid for benign tumors.

Many approaches to the parapharyngeal space have been reported. However, few reports describe parapharyngeal space tumours and the best surgical approach to these tumours. We retrospectively examined the surgical approaches we used to resect 22 parapharyngeal space tumours. In order to determine the best surgical approach for each tumour, we first subdivided the parapharyngeal space into six compartments, based on anatomical landmarks seen on computed tomography and/or magnetic resonance imaging scans. We then determined the location of each tumour relative to these six parapharyngeal space compartments. In our series of cases, we found that large tumours spanning the superior portion of the parapharyngeal space could be completely removed through a skull base approach. To remove a large tumour in the middle and inferior portion of the parapharyngeal space, a transparotid approach was the most suitable. Finally, a tumour in the inferior portion of the parapharyngeal space was best accessed through a transcervical approach.

We describe a 54-year-old man whose obstructive sleep apnoea was cured by resection of a pleomorphic salivary adenoma, and emphasise the importance of a full examination of the upper airway in the assessment of a patient with symptoms of sleep apnoea.

Objective: To determine the role of computed tomography (CT)-guided fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) in surgical planning for parapharyngeal space (PPS) tumors., Design and Setting: Chart review of 49 consecutive patients with surgically treated PPS tumors from 1995 to 2005., Results: Twenty-nine patients had CT-guided FNAB. A cytopathologic diagnosis that was the same as final pathology was rendered in 14 (48%) patients; suggestive but not conclusive in 6 (21%) patients; discordant in 3 (10%) patients; and 6 (21%) patients had a nondiagnostic result. Fourteen of 15 patients who had a final histopathologic finding of pleomorphic adenoma had a correct or highly suggestive preoperative FNAB diagnosis. The positive predictive value for CT-guided FNAB to identify benign tumors is 90%, (18 of 20) but to identify malignant PPS tumors is 75% (3 of 4)., Conclusion: CT-guided FNAB of PPS tumors is helpful to predict the nature of the PPS tumors (especially benign), which allows the surgeon and patient to plan for treatment, accordingly.

Parapharyngeal neoplasms are rare entities in children. Benign minor salivary gland neoplasms of the parapharyngeal space have been described in the adult literature, but there is little guidance in the pediatric literature. We present the case of an adolescent male with a primary minor salivary gland pleomorphic adenoma presenting as an enlarging, asymptomatic parapharyngeal mass. We discuss the clinical presentation, radiologic findings, differential diagnosis and our surgical management with a summary of the current literature on the topic.

Malignant myoepithelioma is a rare salivary gland neoplasm that can arise either de novo or within a pre-existing pleomorphic adenoma. We report a case of malignant myoepithelioma arising from a pleomorphic adenoma of the soft palate. A 70-year-old woman presented in our department with a very large tumor of the soft palate. The patient had a history of a pleomorphic adenoma at the same location that was surgically removed 2 years ago. A second operation, with intraoral excision of the tumor was performed. Histological examination of the recurrence revealed a malignant spindle cell neoplasm with an infiltrative growth pattern and a high mitotic rate. Immunohistochemical investigation confirmed the diagnosis of a low-grade carcinoma of myoepithelial origin with free surgical margins. The patient remains free of disease for more than twelve months after the end of treatment.

Primary parapharyngeal space tumours are exceedingly rare. We present a series of 114 parapharyngeal space tumours, the second largest in the literature. The most frequent benign tumours were pleomorphic adenoma (34) and paraganglioma (33); the commonest malignancies were of salivary gland origin (12). The 5- and 10-year survival for benign tumours was 100%. The 5- and 10-year survival for malignancies was 93% and 57% respectively. The importance of long-term follow-up is evidently crucial.

Objective: To describe clinical and demographic characteristics of the parapharyngeal space tumors and assess surgical approaches used to treat them at our institution., Methods: A retrospective and descriptive study of the parapharyngeal space tumors, excluding paragangliomas, treated from June 1991 to October 2002 in a cancer center. The study population included 21 patients, 8 men and 13 women, average age of 41 years (range, 20 to 70 years). Fine needle biopsy was done in 5 (24%) patients. Computed tomography (CT) was performed in all patients, and only a few required magnetic resonance image (MRI)., Results: Surgical approaches included transcervical alone or in combination with parotidectomy, transoral, or transmandibular (mandibular swing) approach. Laminectomy and segmentary approaches were also performed in 1 patient each. Sixteen (76%) patients had benign lesions and 5 (24%) had malignant tumors. Neurogenic tumors represented 57% of all tumors. Mean tumor size was of 6.7 cm (range, 3 to 11 cm). Six (29%) patients received adjuvant radiotherapy. Complications occurred in 6 (29%) patients, 4 (19%) of which were nervous injuries associated with peripheral nerve sheath tumors. Median disease-free follow-up survival was 33 months (range, 2 to 184 months) despite being an heterogeneous group of histologies., Conclusion: Parapharyngeal space is a rare location for head and neck tumors. Cervical approach should be the first choice for large tumors; transoral approach is reserved for tumors less than 3 cm. Conversion to mandibular swing approach when the cervical approach is not offering proper exposure for tumor resection is indicated. Preoperative histologic diagnosis is not required. Nevertheless, CT scan should always be performed in order to exclude paragangliomas, distinguish prestyloid from poststyloid lesions, and to assess the extension of the tumor as well as its relationship with adjacent structures.

The parapharyngeal space (PPS) is a well-defined anatomic zone of loose connective tissue lying deep to the tonsil and lateral to the pharynx. Neoplasms arising within the PPS are rare. We retrospectively reviewed 24 PPS fine-needle aspirations (FNAs) performed at The Johns Hopkins Hospital over the past 16 years (1987-2002). Patients presented with neck pain, dysphagia, and/or intraoral swelling of varying duration. Radiographic imaging disclosed PPS masses, varying in size from 2.5 to 8 cm. The most common clinicoradiographic suspicion was a nerve sheath tumor. Six cases had FNA performed using a 23-gauge needle via a transoral approach in the outpatient suite whereas the remainder were aspirated via a 22-gauge Franseen needle under CT guidance. Six of 24 cases (25%) were nondiagnostic due to lack of adequate cellular material. Of the 18 cases considered diagnostic, there were nine (50%) pleomorphic adenomas (PAs); three (17%) squamous-cell carcinomas (SCC); and one each of oncocytoma, adenocarcinoma, not otherwise specified (NOS), adenoid cystic carcinoma, lipoma, neurofibroma, and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, together comprising the remaining 33%. Four of the six cases deemed nondiagnostic (consisting predominantly of blood) on subsequent tissue follow-up revealed paraganglioma (two cases), SCC (one case), and schwannoma (one case). PPS is an uncommon target of an FNA procedure. PPS masses represent a heterogeneous group of neoplasms of which PA appears most common, representing 50% of our diagnostic cases. The rate of nondiagnostic FNA samples is moderately high due to excessive bleeding encountered in this location and other technical problems relating to adequately targeting the lesion in close vicinity of major neck vessels., ((c) 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc.)