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Showing posts from January, 2026

What to Know About Parotid Tumor Surgery and Facial Nerve Safety

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  Parotid tumor surgery is a common treatment for tumors that grow in the parotid gland. The parotid gland is the largest salivary gland and is located in front of the ear. Tumors in this gland can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Surgery is often needed to remove the tumor and protect nearby structures, especially the facial nerve. What Is the Parotid Gland and Why Do Tumors Develop? The parotid gland produces saliva, which helps in chewing and digestion. A tumor develops when cells in the gland grow in an abnormal way. Parotid gland tumor causes are not always clear, but possible reasons include: Cell changes over time Past radiation exposure Genetic factors Smoking in some cases Most parotid tumors are benign, but all need medical evaluation. What Are the Common Symptoms of a Parotid Tumor? Many people notice a slow-growing lump near the ear or jaw. Parotid tumor symptoms and signs may include: A painless swelling near the ...

Salivary Gland Tumor: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options Explained

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  A salivary gland tumor is an abnormal growth that forms in the glands that produce saliva. These glands help keep the mouth moist and support digestion. They are found near the ears, under the jaw, and beneath the tongue. Most of these tumors are not cancer, but some can be serious and need careful medical attention. These growths can appear at any age, though they are more common in adults. Some grow slowly and cause little discomfort at first, which is why they are sometimes ignored in the early stages. Where Do Salivary Glands Exist in the Body? Salivary glands are located in several areas of the head and neck. The three main pairs are the parotid glands (near the ears), the submandibular glands (under the jaw), and the sublingual glands (under the tongue). There are also many tiny glands spread throughout the mouth and throat. A salivary gland tumors may develop in any of these glands. The location of the growth often affects the symptoms a person notices. What Sy...

Understanding the Risks and Benefits of Parotid Tumor Surgery

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  The parotid glands are major salivary glands located near the jaw, just in front of the ears. Sometimes, these glands develop tumors, which may be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Parotid tumor surgery is a procedure performed to remove these tumors to prevent complications such as difficulty swallowing, infection, or, in the case of malignant tumors, the spread of cancer. Tumors in the parotid glands can vary in size and may cause pain or swelling in the affected area. They are often detected through physical exams, imaging tests, or biopsies. The surgery's main objective is to remove the tumor while preserving the function of the gland and the facial nerve, which runs through the parotid gland. However, the exact nature of the surgery depends on the tumor’s size, type, and location. How is Parotid Tumor Surgery Performed? The procedure for parotid tumor surgery typically involves a surgical incision near the ear, allowing the surgeon to carefully access ...