Endoscope-assisted extracapsular dissection of benign parotid tumors using hairline incision.

BACKGROUND: This study evaluated the feasibility of endoscopic-assisted extracapsular dissection of benign parotid tumors using only hairline incision. METHODS: Endoscope-assisted extracapsular dissection via only hairline incision was performed in 18 cases (5 men and 13 women) of benign parotid gland tumor (pleomorphic adenoma in 4 cases, Warthin's tumor in 14 cases). RESULTS: All 18 operations were successfully performed and no conversions to conventional open resection were necessary. One patient had transient facial paresis and recovered within 1 month. The duration of the procedure was 82.5 +/- 18.5 minutes. CONCLUSION: Endoscope-assisted extracapsular dissection using only hairline incision is a feasible method for treatment of benign parotid tumors. The main advantage of this procedure is that the operative scar is concealed in the hairline area.