ABSTRACT
The potential complications of superficial parotidectomy procedure are damage to the VIIth nerve, haematoma, infection, salivary fistula, and Frey’s syndrome. Frey’s syndrome is gustatory sweating, causing hyperhidrosis, pain and flushing in the distribution of the auriculotemporal nerve when the patient eats. It is thought to be due to disorganisation of postganglionic sympathetic fibres and preganglionic parasympathetic fibres following trauma during surgery. A total parotidectomy with preservation of the facial nerve is performed for a lump in the deep part of the parotid gland. The parotid duct stomatoplasty procedure is usually performed for obstructive parotitis, under general anaesthetic with the patient in the supine position. A pernasal endotracheal tube and pharyngeal packs are used. The patient’s mouth is kept open with a dental prop, and the tongue is retracted to the contralateral side by an assistant.
