A comparative study of the endoscopy-assisted transoral approach versus external approaches for the resection of large benign parapharyngeal space tumors.

OBJECTIVE:The advantages and limitations of the endoscopy-assisted transoral approach (EATA) and external approaches (EAs) in resection of parapharyngeal space tumors (PSTs) remain unclear. In our study, we compared the use of the EATA and the EAs for the resection of large, benign PSTs. STUDY DESIGN:Forty-four patients with PSTs were divided into the EATA and EA groups. The perioperative and postoperative outcomes of the patients were evaluated. RESULTS:All of the tumors were completely removed. However, the procedure was converted to an open procedure for four patients in the EATA group and for six patients in the EA group who required endoscopic assistance. The intraoperative blood loss, amount and duration of drainage, postoperative pain, total hospital stay, and cosmetic outcomes were superior in the EATA group (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS:Use of the EATA for resection of large, benign PSTs decreased the surgical invasiveness of the procedure and resulted in better aesthetic outcomes. However, use of the combined surgical approach allowed for improved access for the resection of PSTs.