Search

Objective To explore the potential advantages of endoscopy in traditional transcervical and transcervical-parotid approaches for resecting of parapharyngeal space (PPS) tumors. Methods Clinical data of 87 patients with PPS tumors treated at Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University from January 2017 to December 2018 were analyzed retrospectively. The patients were divided into the traditional group and the endoscopy-assisted group. The traditional group consisted of 37 cases, with 28 receiving a transcervical approach and 9 undergoing a transcervical-parotid approach. The endoscopy-assisted group included 50 patients, with 40 undergoing a transcervical approach and 10 receiving a transcervical-parotid approach. Clinical characteristics and postoperative effects were compared between the two groups . Results Postoperative pathology revealed that benign tumors accounted for the majority in both groups, with 35 cases (94.6%) in the traditional group and 45 cases (90.0%) in the endoscopy-assisted group. In terms of operation time, intraoperative blood loss, hospital stays, total tumor resection rate, or recurrence rate, there were no significant differences between the two groups. However, there was a statistically significant difference in the presence of tumors attending to the skull base: 14 cases (28%) in the endoscopy-assisted group compared to just 2 cases (5.4%) in the traditional group (P<0.01). Conclusions Endoscopy-assisted surgery is useful for locating and protecting critical cranial nerves and blood vessels during surgery, especially for upper PPS tumors. It helps to reduce surgical trauma while offering additional benefits such as improved cosmetic effects and preservation of neurological function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Branchial cleft cyst (BCC) most frequently arises from the second branchial cleft and is located anterior to the sternocleidomastoid muscle at the mandibular angle. However, very rarely, this may occur in the parapharyngeal space. Interestingly, the parapharyngeal BCC is frequently misdiagnosed as a peritonsillar abscess. In this study, we reported 2 cases of parapharyngeal BCC misdiagnosed as peritonsillar abscess. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Medullary thyroid carcinoma constitutes 5% to 10% of all thyroid cancers. Metastatic adenopathies may pose challenges in intricate anatomical locations, such as the parapharyngeal space. A rare case of metastatic medullary thyroid carcinoma in the parapharyngeal space has been treated in our unit using combined trans-cervical trans-oral robotic surgery. Our objective was to provide a detailed description of the surgery performed on this patient. Method: We reported a singular case report worth of interest. Result: A 42-year-old woman was addressed in our unit for the management of a medullary thyroid carcinoma adenopathy located in the right parapharyngeal space. A parapharyngeal 40.0 mm × 25.0 mm × 12.0 mm adenopathy was removed using a combined trans-cervical and trans-oral robotic approach without sacrifice or injury of vascular or nervous structure. Neither the tracheostomy nor the feeding tube was implemented. Feeding was resumed on postoperative day 1 and hospitalization spanned 7 days. Conclusion: An innovative combined trans-cervical and trans-oral robotic surgery approach was conducted to address a metastatic medullary thyroid carcinoma in the parapharyngeal space. This surgical technique allowed us to circumvent the need for a trans-mandibular approach, tracheostomy, and feeding tube and enabling successful tumor removal without fragmentation. Postoperative care was significantly eased. The sole complication observed was dysphonia, likely resulting from intra-operative stretching of the vagus nerve during the dissection of the carotid artery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To describe the key points of cervical resection for prestyloid parapharyngeal pleomorphic adenoma and to discuss the role of modern imaging. Retrospective case series of 10 patients (4 women and 6 men, age 29–63 years) with prestyloid parapharyngeal pleomorphic adenoma with 2 to 8 cm largest diameter on MRI, consecutively resected via a cervical approach between 2000 and 2020 in a French tertiary university referral care center. Seven patients had a minimum 10 years' follow-up, and one was lost to follow-up before the fifth postoperative year. Peri- and postoperative complications comprised great auricular nerve transection without subsequent symptomatic neuroma (2 patients), associated transoral approach to free the upper pole of the adenoma (2 patients), capsule effraction (3 patients), and hematoma (1 patient). There were no cases of facial paresis or palsy, other cranial nerve impairment, trismus, auriculotemporal or first-bite syndrome. One of the three patients with capsule effraction showed local recurrence at month 17. In agreement with previous reports, the present case series confirmed the role of the cervical approach to resect prestyloid parapharyngeal pleomorphic adenoma, and hence the need to continue teaching it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The solitary fibrous tumor (SFT) is usually described as a lesion arising from the pleura. Rarely, it has been described in the parapharyngeal space (PS). This study aims to report two cases of SFT in the PS and to perform a literature review on this topic. Two patients undergoing surgical resection of a SFT in the PS, were reported. A literature review on SFT of the PS, was also performed. Two patients were analyzed. Both patients underwent surgical resection, followed by adjuvant radiotherapy, for SFT arising from the PS. The postoperative course was uneventful and both patients recovered well after the procedure. No recurrences were diagnosed during the followup. SFT of the PS is an infrequent entity. Surgical resection is the most used treatment, and adjuvant radiation should be considered in patients with recurrence risk factors or distant metastases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Backgrounds/Objectives: Parotid gland tumors (PGTs) with parapharyngeal space (PPS) involvement have a specific clinical course and they can be a great challenge for surgeons, especially due to more difficult approaches and the risk of serious complications. The aim of this study is to present the characteristics of PGTs with PPS involvement. Methods: Retrospective, multicenter analysis of 1954 primary PGTs from 5 years (2017–2021) was performed. Comparative analysis was performed between groups with and without PPS involvement and included the following clinical and histopathological data: age, sex, place of residence, tumor size, FNAC result, percentage of malignant tumors, histological diagnosis, radicality of resection, and postoperative facial nerve (FN) dysfunction. Results: PPS involvement was found in 114 patients (5.83%). Secondary tumors affecting the deep lobe or the entire gland were predominant (46 and 60 cases, respectively). In a univariate analysis of tumors with and without PPS involvement, statistically significant differences were found in their size > 4 cm (12.97% vs. 37.72%), percentage of malignant tumors (7.12% vs. 17.55%), incidence of Warthin Tumors (WTs) (43.58% vs. 24.56%), percentage of R1 resection (5.53% vs. 12.50%), and rate of FN paresis (17.15% vs. 53.34%). Multivariate analysis showed that tumors with PPS involvement were statistically significantly characterized by larger size (tumors > 4 cm were 2.9 times more frequent), 2 times less frequent occurrence of WTs, and 1.6 times higher risk of FN paresis. Conclusion: PGTs with PPS involvement show certain clinical and histological differences and require more complex surgical accesses. Therefore, they cannot be treated as "ordinary" tumors occupying the deep lobe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Computed tomography (CT) reconstruction algorithms can improve image quality, especially deep learning reconstruction (DLR). We compared DLR, iterative reconstruction (IR), and filtered back projection (FBP) for lesion detection in neck CT. Methods Nine patient-mimicking neck phantoms were examined with a 320-slice scanner at six doses: 0.5, 1, 1.6, 2.1, 3.1, and 5.2 mGy. Each of eight phantoms contained one circular lesion (diameter 1 cm; contrast -30 HU to the background) in the parapharyngeal space; one phantom had no lesions. Reconstruction was made using FBP, IR, and DLR. Thirteen readers were tasked with identifying and localizing lesions in 32 images with a lesion and 20 without lesions for each dose and reconstruction algorithm. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) and localization ROC (LROC) analysis were performed. Results DLR improved lesion detection with ROC area under the curve (AUC) 0.724 ± 0.023 (mean ± standard error of the mean) using DLR versus 0.696 ± 0.021 using IR (p = 0.037) and 0.671 ± 0.023 using FBP (p

Background: Computed tomography (CT) reconstruction algorithms can improve image quality, especially deep learning reconstruction (DLR). We compared DLR, iterative reconstruction (IR), and filtered back projection (FBP) for lesion detection in neck CT. Methods: Nine patient-mimicking neck phantoms were examined with a 320-slice scanner at six doses: 0.5, 1, 1.6, 2.1, 3.1, and 5.2 mGy. Each of eight phantoms contained one circular lesion (diameter 1 cm; contrast -30 HU to the background) in the parapharyngeal space; one phantom had no lesions. Reconstruction was made using FBP, IR, and DLR. Thirteen readers were tasked with identifying and localizing lesions in 32 images with a lesion and 20 without lesions for each dose and reconstruction algorithm. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) and localization ROC (LROC) analysis were performed. Results: DLR improved lesion detection with ROC area under the curve (AUC) 0.724 ± 0.023 (mean ± standard error of the mean) using DLR versus 0.696 ± 0.021 using IR (p = 0.037) and 0.671 ± 0.023 using FBP (p < 0.001). Likewise, DLR improved lesion localization, with LROC AUC 0.407 ± 0.039 versus 0.338 ± 0.041 using IR (p = 0.002) and 0.313 ± 0.044 using FBP (p < 0.001). Dose reduction to 0.5 mGy compromised lesion detection in FBP-reconstructed images compared to doses ≥ 2.1 mGy (p ≤ 0.024), while no effect was observed with DLR or IR (p ≥ 0.058). Conclusion: DLR improved the detectability of lesions in neck CT imaging. Dose reduction to 0.5 mGy maintained lesion detectability when denoising reconstruction was used. Relevance statement: Deep learning enhances lesion detection in neck CT imaging compared to iterative reconstruction and filtered back projection, offering improved diagnostic performance and potential for x-ray dose reduction. Key Points: Low-contrast lesion detectability was assessed in anatomically realistic neck CT phantoms. Deep learning reconstruction (DLR) outperformed filtered back projection and iterative reconstruction. Dose has little impact on lesion detectability against anatomical background structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A case of pleomorphic adenoma of deep lobe of parotid in parapharyngeal space presented as intra oral swelling. FNAC showed features of pleomorphic adenoma. Surgery done through transcervical route. HPE of excised mass confirmed pleomorphic adenoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Metastasis to parapharyngeal space in papillary carcinoma of the thyroid is rare and often missed in routine clinical and radiological investigations. Although contrast CT /MRI can be done to locate the parapharyngeal lesion, the diagnosis of metastasis mostly deepened upon aspiration cytology, which is a challenge in difficult anatomical locations. Here, we have emphasized the management dilemma of parapharyngeal metastasis in papillary carcinoma of the thyroid. Case Report: A 30-year-old female presented with multiple right-side neck swelling for two months. Ultrasonography of right thyroid showed TIRAD V and left thyroid showed TIRAD II. Aspiration cytology of the right thyroid showed Bethesda III and aspiration cytology revealed thyroid follicles. Due to the diagnostic ambiguity, contrast-enhanced CT scan was advised. It revealed a hypervascular lymph node in the parapharyngeal space besides multiple right cervical lymph nodes and later changed the treatment plan. Conclusion: - Metastasis to parapharyngeal space in Papillary carcinoma of the thyroid is rare and often missed on routine evaluation. Contrast-enhanced CT/MRI can be added as a primary investigation in challenging cases of suspicious malignancy of the thyroid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study compared sequential changes in skeletal stability and the pharyngeal airway following mandibular setback surgery involving fixation with either a titanium or a bioabsorbable plate and screws. Materials and Methods: Twenty-eight patients with mandibular prognathism undergoing bilateral sagittal split osteotomy by titanium or bioabsorbable fixation were randomly selected in this study. Lateral cephalometric analysis was conducted preoperatively and at 1 week, 3-6 months, and 1 year postoperatively. Mandibular stability was assessed by examining horizontal (BX), vertical (BY), and angular measurements including the sella-nasion to point B angle and the mandibular plane angle (MPA). Pharyngeal airway changes were evaluated by analyzing the nasopharynx, uvula-pharynx, tongue-pharynx, and epiglottis-pharynx (EOP) distances. Mandibular and pharyngeal airway changes were examined sequentially. To evaluate postoperative changes within groups, the Wilcoxon signedrank test was employed, while the Mann-Whitney U test was used for between-group comparisons. Immediate postoperative changes in the airway were correlated to surgical movements using the Spearman rank test. Results: Significant changes in the MPA were observed in both the titanium and bioabsorbable groups at 3-6 months post-surgery, with significance persisting in the bioabsorbable group at 1 year postoperatively (2.29°±2.28°; P<0.05). The bioabsorbable group also exhibited significant EOP changes (-1.21±1.54 mm; P<0.05) at 3-6 months, which gradually returned to non-significant levels by 1 year postoperatively. Conclusion: Osteofixation using bioabsorbable plates and screws is comparable to that achieved with titanium in long-term skeletal stability and maintaining pharyngeal airway dimensions. However, a tendency for relapse exists, especially regarding the MPA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aim: First bite syndrome (FBS) is a symptom of severe pain at the beginning of a meal that lessens as the meal progresses. It is a common postoperative complication of parapharyngeal space tumors and is rarely reported as the first symptom of parotid carcinoma. The parapharyngeal space is considered a difficult area for approach; hence, preoperative histopathology is often challenging. However, there are hardly any reports on the approach of performing biopsies under computerized tomography (CT) guidance. Case Report: A 28-year-old woman presented to our hospital with the chief complaint of pain in the left parotid region since the past year. Contrastenhanced magnetic resonance imaging of the parotid gland revealed a 10-mm high-signal area on T2-weighted images extending from the deep lobe of the left parotid gland to the parapharyngeal space, which could not be visualized on ultrasound. She was suspected to have a malignant tumor because of the presence of a parotid tumor with FBS. Therefore, she underwent CT-guided fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) and was diagnosed with adenoid cystic carcinoma. The patient underwent left parotid tumor resection and left cervical dissection, and her pain during feeding improved postoperatively. Conclusion: In a patient with parotid tumor extending into the parapharyngeal space with FBS as the initial symptom, CT-guided FNAC was successfully used to diagnose parotid carcinoma. Symptoms of pain, including FBS, should be considered in cases of malignancy. CT-guided FNAC is effective for lesions that cannot be visualized by ultrasound, such as those in the parapharyngeal space. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endoscopic transoral excision of parapharyngeal space (PPS) tumors is often condemned for its many limitations. We revisit this approach and aim to introduce some updated perspectives following the advancement of endoscopic instrumentation, robotic transoral surgery, and radical tonsillectomy. We illustrate the techniques that were deployed for six patients with huge benign PPS tumors originating from the pre-styloid compartment at our center. Only patients who had a tumor size of five cm or larger were included in this study. We summarized our patients’ outcomes, the important considerations, and the advantages and disadvantages of this approach. With accurate selection and surgical strategy, all our patients had good clinical outcomes. We demonstrated that even larger tumors can be safely removed endoscopically. Surely, this approach will gain traction, and better-designed studies should be conducted in the future to assess its credibility.

Oncocytoma arising from the parotid gland and extending into the parapharyngeal space (PPS) has not been previously reported. A 64-year-old woman presented with a large slowly growing mass extending from the parotid to the submandibular area, expanding medially to displace the pharynx across the midline. Core-needle biopsy revealed an oncocytoma in the PPS measuring 120 × 88 × 60 mm in size. Although the tumor was of an unprecedentedly large size and extended into multiple spaces, it could be removed via a cervical–parotid approach without osteotomy. The resected tumor was again diagnosed as oncocytoma. A postoperative complication was weakness of the ipsilateral facial nerve, which almost completely resolved in 6 months. No recurrence has been noted on 1 y follow-up. We were able to resect an extremely large oncocytoma arising from the parotid gland without osteotomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Venous malformations are low flow endothelial malformations with aberrant and ectatic venous channels. They are defects in vascular growth which causes functional and cosmetic impairment. Gradual growth in size of the lesion occurs due to venous congestion or thrombosis. Venous malformations in parapharyngeal space are a rare entity and are difficult to diagnose. Case Report. 13 year old boy presented with a history of hyposmia and progressive difficulty in breathing for a duration of 2.5 years. MRI face and neck with contrast showed a 4.5 × 4.3x3.6 cm lesion in the left parapharyngeal space. CT angiogram of brain and neck demonstrated a heterogeneously enhancing mass in the left parapharyngeal region. PET scan illustrated an ill-defined mass in the left pre styloid parapharyngeal space. Biopsy from the lesion showed features consistent with venolymphatic malformation. Flexible laryngoscopy showed a bulge over the left soft palate region with narrowing of nasopharyngeal lumen. Patient underwent transoral robotic surgery for complete excision of the mass. Post-operative period was uneventful. He has been on follow up for the past 1 year with no evidence of any residual or recurrent disease. Venolymphatic malformation is a rare lesion in the parapharyngeal space which is difficult to diagnose pre operatively. Surgical excision is the preferred modality of treatment for deep seated lesions in the parapharyngeal space. The advent of transoral robotic surgery have reduced the morbidity and improved clearance for such cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. The external carotid artery (ECA) is typically regarded as coursing between the styloid muscles to continue into the parotid space. The anatomical possibility of an ECA with an ascending parapharyngeal trajectory continuing posteriorly to an elongated styloid process (ESP), thus retrostyloid, to the parotid space is overlooked. It was, therefore, aimed to document the prevalence of this retrostyloid variant of the ECA's course. Methods. We investigated a retrospective random cohort of 160 archived CT angiograms of 97 males and 63 females aged between 47 and 76. The presence of an ESP and the retrostyloid course of the ECA were bilaterally documented. Results. An ESP was identified in 99/320 sides (30.94%), regardless of the ECA course. In the overall group, we obtained 35% null cases for the two variables on the right and 34.06% for the left. ESPs were identified in 8.75% on the right side and 10.31% on the left. The ECAs had retrostyloid courses in 6.25% on the right side and 5.63% on the left. Thus, of the 320 ECAs documented on both sides, 221 (69.06%) had no retrostyloid courses, and we did not identify any ESP in those cases. ESPs were detected in 19.06% of the sides but without retrostyloid ECAs, and retrostyloid courses of the ECAs were detected in 11.88%. Conclusions. The possibility of a retrostyloid course of the ECA should not be ignored. An ESP may misinform the surgeon about the main carotid artery located immediately deep to it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metastatic parapharyngeal lymph nodes (LNs) from papillary thyroid carcinomas (PTC) are uncommon and can easily remain undetected. We describe a case that involves a 62-year-old woman treated for a PTC, who presented a rise in serum thyroglobulin (TG) levels. A computed tomography scan was performed, and revealed metastatic nodes in the left parapharyngeal space (PPS). A surgical resection of the nodes was performed with external cervical approach. A histological exam confirmed the diagnosis of a metastatic LN of a PTC. The aim of this report is to emphasize on the possibility of parapharyngeal metastatic nodes in PTC and to describe the diagnosis methods, treatment options, and impact on the prognosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 54-year-old male patient presented for a periodic check-up at the dental clinic. A panoramic radiograph showed bilateral ossification of the stylohyoid ligament with an oval radiopacity on the right side. Cone-beam computed tomography revealed a well-defined, homogenous hyperdense entity from the lower third of the ossified stylohyoid ligament on the right side. The differential diagnosis of osteoma on the stylohyoid chain includes Eagle syndrome and benign tumors of the stylohyoid chain and adjacent structures. Osteoma rarely manifests in the neck. Even more infrequent are tumors originating from the stylohyoid chain, with only a single documented case of osteoma reported in the literature in 1993. Due to the asymptomatic status, no surgical intervention was advised, and the case would be monitored periodically. This case report describes the details of an osteoma that emerged from the stylohyoid chain, marking it as the second recorded occurrence of this highly rare condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endoscopic transoral excision of parapharyngeal space (PPS) tumors is often condemned for its many limitations. We revisit this approach and aim to introduce some updated perspectives following the advancement of endoscopic instrumentation, robotic transoral surgery, and radical tonsillectomy. We illustrate the techniques that were deployed for six patients with huge benign PPS tumors originating from the pre-styloid compartment at our center. Only patients who had a tumor size of five cm or larger were included in this study. We summarized our patients' outcomes, the important considerations, and the advantages and disadvantages of this approach. With accurate selection and surgical strategy, all our patients had good clinical outcomes. We demonstrated that even larger tumors can be safely removed endoscopically. Surely, this approach will gain traction, and better-designed studies should be conducted in the future to assess its credibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

parapharyngeal space can have a mass of thyroid origin following metastasis from the thyroid or ectopic thyroid tissue. The extension of multinodular goiter into the parapharyngeal space is rare. A 54-year-old female presented with a 5-month history of neck mass and dyspnea. On examination, a large mass was seen on the right side of the neck which was bulging into the right parapharngeal. In the sonography, a large 50 × 57 mm cyst seen at the upper end of the right lobe of the thyroid. Computed tomography (CT) identified a 46 × 56 mm lesion medial to the right carotid sheath with a mass effect on the parapharyngeal space from the posterolateral aspect and appeared to be an exophytic cystic nodule arising from the upper pole of the right thyroidal lobe. The patient underwent total thyroidectomy, and the final pathology of multinodular goiter was reported. The spread of masses of the thyroid origin to the parapharyngeal space should be considered one of the differential diagnoses of these space masses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different surgical techniques have been proposed for parapharyngeal space tumors, including trans-cervical, trans-parotid, trans-mandibular, infratemporal, and trans-oral. The choice of the correct approach depends on size, localization, and nature of the tumor. We describe a case of a 32-year-old female presented with a large pre-styloid pleomorphic adenoma, originating from the right deep parotid lobe. A trans-oral approach was chosen and an en-bloc excision of the mass (46 × 42 × 30 mm) was performed. Our case showed that trans-oral approach to pre-styloid parotid tumors represents a safe procedure that may be used also for large benign masses in selected cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Backgrounds/Objectives: Parotid gland tumors (PGTs) with parapharyngeal space (PPS) involvement have a specific clinical course and they can be a great challenge for surgeons, especially due to more difficult approaches and the risk of serious complications. The aim of this study is to present the characteristics of PGTs with PPS involvement. Methods: Retrospective, multicenter analysis of 1954 primary PGTs from 5 years (2017–2021) was performed. Comparative analysis was performed between groups with and without PPS involvement and included the following clinical and histopathological data: age, sex, place of residence, tumor size, FNAC result, percentage of malignant tumors, histological diagnosis, radicality of resection, and postoperative facial nerve (FN) dysfunction. Results: PPS involvement was found in 114 patients (5.83%). Secondary tumors affecting the deep lobe or the entire gland were predominant (46 and 60 cases, respectively). In a univariate analysis of tumors with and without PPS involvement, statistically significant differences were found in their size > 4 cm (12.97% vs. 37.72%), percentage of malignant tumors (7.12% vs. 17.55%), incidence of Warthin Tumors (WTs) (43.58% vs. 24.56%), percentage of R1 resection (5.53% vs. 12.50%), and rate of FN paresis (17.15% vs. 53.34%). Multivariate analysis showed that tumors with PPS involvement were statistically significantly characterized by larger size (tumors > 4 cm were 2.9 times more frequent), 2 times less frequent occurrence of WTs, and 1.6 times higher risk of FN paresis. Conclusion: PGTs with PPS involvement show certain clinical and histological differences and require more complex surgical accesses. Therefore, they cannot be treated as "ordinary" tumors occupying the deep lobe.

This article presents a case series of four patients with relapse of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) in the parapharyngeal space (PPS) who were successfully treated with transoral robotic surgery (TORS). The study found that TORS was a safe and effective approach for resecting PPS tumors, with complete tumor resection achieved in each case and no complications reported. The article recommends using a neuronavigation system during surgery to improve safety and advises against performing TORS in cases where extra-nodal extension (ENE) is suspected. This study is the first to report on the use of TORS for PPS metastasis of PTC. [Extracted from the article]

Ganglioneuroma is a rare benign tumor originating in the sympathetic ganglia, composed of differentiated ganglion cells, nerve sheath cells, and nerve fibers, which tend to occur in the posterior mediastinum, adrenal gland, retroperitoneal, and other locations, occurring in the head and neck is relatively rare, and parapharyngeal space involvement is extremely rare. In our report, we present 2 adult male patients whose preoperative imaging and fine needle cytology did not confirm the diagnosis of a parapharyngeal space mass and who completely resected the tumor through a combined cervical and oral approach. Finally, pathology confirmed ganglioneuroma; we also reviewed the English articles on parapharyngeal ganglioneuroma over the past 40 years, and summarized the diagnostic and treatment characteristics of parapharyngeal ganglioneuroma in combination with our cases to improve understanding of the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stylohyoid syndrome diagnosis is still challenging nowadays and its symptoms can be easily confused with other orofacial pathologies. The aim of this study is to report a case with stylohyoid syndrome, highlighting the symptoms, diagnosis, and surgical treatment, and describing an unusual major complication. Methods: A 48-year-old woman presented to Portuguese orofacial pain department with a history of progressive and unspecified neck pain lasting for 6 years. After clinical investigation, a stylohyoid syndrome was diagnosed based on previous computed tomography (CT) imaging demonstrating progressive calcification of the stylohyoid complex. Results: Surgery by external approach solved the patient's symptoms, but a transient bilateral hypoglossal palsy was found. It was managed conservatively and recovered within 6 weeks. Conclusion: From our knowledge, this is the first study documenting a stylohyoid complex calcification, improving our knowledge about the calcification progression. Depending on surgical and anatomical conditions, the surgeon should consider approaching the contralateral side in a second surgery to avoid major bilateral complications of the parapharyngeal space, like bilateral hypoglossal palsy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The purpose of this study was to identify neurogenic tumours and pleomorphic adenomas of the parapharyngeal space based on the texture characteristics of MRI-T2WI. Methods MR findings and pathological reports of 25 patients with benign tumours in the parapharyngeal space were reviewed retrospectively (13 cases with pleomorphic adenomas and 12 cases with neurogenic tumours). Using PyRadiomics, the texture of the region of interest in T2WI sketched by radiologists was analysed. By using independent sample t-tests and Mann‒Whitney U tests, the selected texture features of 36 Gray Level Co-Occurrence Matrix (GLCM) and Gray Level Dependence Matrix (GLDM) were tested. A set of parameters of texture features showed statistically significant differences between the two groups, which were selected, and the diagnostic efficiency was evaluated via the operating characteristic curve of the subjects. Results The differences in the three parameters – small dependence low level emphasis (SDLGLE), low level emphasis (LGLE) and difference variance (DV) of characteristics – between the two groups were statistically significant (P

Objective To investigate the endoscopic transoral ⁃ medial pterygomandibular fold approach anatomic procedures for jugular foramen, and to analyze the clinical feasibility of this approach. Methods and Results In the anatomical laboratory of the Surgical Treatment Technology Innovation Unit of Nasal Skull Base Tumor in Eye & ENT Hospital of Fudan University, a total of 5 specimens of necroheads (10 sides) were taken as research objects to simulate the anatomical steps of entering the jugular foramina and its adjacent structures through the oral pterygomandibular fold medial approach, and observe and describe important anatomical markers. 1) Anatomical procedures of the jugular foramen: firstly, the soft palate mucosa and suprapharyngeal retractive muscle were cut through the medial incision of pterygomandibular fold to enter anterior parapharyngeal space, the adipose tissue in the space was removed, and the stylopharyngeal fascia and stylopharyngeal muscle group were exposed. After the stylopharyngeal fascia was removed, the internal carotid artery (ICA) was further exposed and the jugular foramen was exposed. 2) The jugular foramen and its adjacent anatomical structures: the upper boundary of the jugular foramen was jugular bulbous fossa, the anterior was ICA, the anterolateral lateral was styloid process, the posterolateral boundary was the lateral rectus of head and transverse process of atlas, the medial boundary was the hypoglossal nerve and medial of occipital condyle, and the lateral boundary was the mastoid, digastric and facial nerves. Conclusions Endoscopic transoral⁃medial pterygomandibular fold approach for jugular foramen has better visual field, wider exposure range and shorter path.

Abstract Background Neurofibromatosis type 1 is an autosomal dominant disorder with an incidence of 1 in 3000 births. Neurofibromas can occur anywhere in the body. Of all the head and neck tumours parapharyngeal space tumours constitute 0.5%. Neurofibromas can constitute about 9% of all the neurogenic tumours (41%) of the parapharyngeal space. Prevalence of nasal obstruction and obstructive sleep-disordered breathing symptoms due to Plexiform neurofibroma in Neurofibromatosis type 1 is rare amounting to less than 0.5% of cases of parapharyngeal space tumours. Case presentation We present a case report of a 24-year-old female patient of Neurofibromatosis type 1 who presented with obstructive sleep-disordered breathing symptoms due to Plexiform neurofibroma in the parapharyngeal space. She had complaints of progressive nasal obstruction with associated snoring, disturbed sleep, and daytime somnolence without any significantly large external neck swelling. She underwent excision of the right parapharyngeal tumor by combined trans parotid and transcervical approach. After histopathological examination, a diagnosis of Plexiform neurofibroma was made. On 1-year follow-up, she is doing well without any recurrence and her presenting symptoms of obstructive sleep-disordered breathing symptoms had improved. Conclusion The symptoms of obstructive sleep-disordered breathing symptoms need to be kept in mind while evaluating such patients and careful attention needs to be given to the patients who report disturbed sleep. Neurofibromatosis type 1 is a multi-system disease which needs holistic care and approach. Such patients should be offered symptomatic treatment and leading questions on the quality of sleep should be asked. Any treatable cause of disturbed sleep like organic sleep disorder should be treated promptly in such patients.

Introduction: Para pharyngeal tumours are rare head neck masses (0.5%). Most of them are benign. Deep location of this space and surrounding structures has led to emergence of many different approaches to this space reflecting the intrinsic difficulty in surgical access. Case Report: An ectopic Minor salivary pleomorphic adenoma of para pharyngeal space with massive extension. Discussion: Para pharyngeal space has complex anatomy, its deep location and relationship with vital structures renders a surgical challenge. Clinical examination of the space is difficult, so imaging plays a major role to know its origin and extension. Pleomorphic adenoma is the most common tumour from the extension of deep lobe of Parotid gland but very rarely from the ectopic minor salivary glands. Excision of benign parapharyngeal space tumours is possible without mandibulotomy even in the case of a large tumour mass reducing patient morbidity and hospital stay.

Background: Meningioma is a common non-glial tumor of the brain. Extracranial meningiomas in the parapharyngeal space are especially rare. Herein we report a case of extracranial meningioma in the parapharyngeal space and give a comprehensive description of its complete clinical course and radiological findings, which may provide helpful information in the diagnosis and treatment of extracranial meningiomas in the parapharyngeal space. Case Presentation: A 61-year-old man presented a slowly increased mass under the left ear without pain and numbness over one year. Ultrasound examination detected a hypoechoic uneven mass behind the left parotid gland with a clear boundary, and color Doppler flow imaging revealed blood flow signals within the mass. Unenhanced computed tomography (CT) of the craniofacial region revealed a homogenous soft tissue mass in the parapharyngeal space without calcification. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed that a homogenous soft tissue mass was hyperintense on T2-weighted image, hypointense on T1- weighted image, and obviously enhanced after contrast enhancement in the parapharyngeal space. Coronal MRI showed that the lesion originated from basicranial dura extending into parapharyngeal space through the left foramen ovale at the skull base. Finally, histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses confirmed the final diagnosis of extracranial meningiomas in the parapharyngeal space. Conclusion: Extracranial meningiomas of the parapharyngeal space are rare and often pose a diagnostic challenge. Preoperative imaging examinations, especially CT and MRI, can aid in the accurate preoperative diagnosis, especially when intracranial extensions and dural tail signs are observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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.

Parapharyngeal space (PPS) lipomas are incredibly uncommon. Prestyloid or poststyloid compartments are the only locations for PPS lipomas. Liposarcoma is a crucial differential to rule out. In order to treat PPS lipomas, the required radiological tests, including magnetic resonance imaging, a biopsy of the lesion if that is available, and lipoma removal surgery are all necessary. We intended to describe a unique giant PPS lipoma that affects both prestyloid and poststyloid compartments

Branchial cleft cyst in parapharyngeal space is a very rare occurrence. Only 0.5% of all head and neck tumours constitute parapharyngeal space tumours. It is mainly congenital but can be seen at a later age following infection. MRI is the gold standard for diagnosis. This is a case report of a 19-year-old with right sided neck swelling without any significant history. It has been excised by transcervical approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The parapharyngeal or the lateral pharyngeal space is a potential anatomical space in the lateral neck extending from skull base to the hyoid bone. The fascial attachment between the styloid process and tensor veli palatini muscle divides this space into two compartments – pre styloid and post styloid. Primary tumors arising from this hidden space are quite rare and demand reasonable doubts and advanced surgical expertise in management. We describe our experience in managing these tumors and the varied surgical approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solitary fibrous tumors are rare vascular tumours, earlier referred to as hemangiopericytoma. Their occurrence in parapharyngeal space is very rare. Hence, they should also be considered in the differential diagnosis of parapharyngeal soft tissue tumours. This case is being reported to bring out an extremely rare vascular tumour at rare site and represents a surgical challenge because of difficult access in parapharyngeal space with difficult planes between tumour and rest of parapharyngeal space, approach to it is also difficult. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Surgical management is the mainstay of treatment for tumours in the parapharyngeal space. This study aimed to evaluate the indications, limits and technical nuances of the endoscopic transoral approach. Method: Thirteen patients with parapharyngeal space tumours that were treated between May 2017 and November 2020 were included in this retrospective study. Results: All patients underwent surgery for complete oncological resection except one patient who received treatment for diagnostic purposes. No major complications were reported, with excellent control of the vital structures of the parapharyngeal space. Conclusion: The endoscopic transoral approach to the parapharyngeal space is a promising alternative approach for selected parapharyngeal space tumours with satisfactory outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Clinical management of vagal schwannoma is a real diagnostic and therapeutic challenge because the medical history and clinical examination are often non-specific and vagal nerve injury following surgical resection still represents an unsolved problem. The aim of this paper is to provide a case series along with a diagnostic and therapeutic algorithm for vagal schwannoma of the head and neck, combining our experience with clinical evidence available in the literature. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed a series of patients affected by vagal schwannoma who were treated between 2000 and 2020. In addition, a review of the literature on vagal schwannoma management was conducted. Based on the cases described and the literature review, we made a diagnostic and therapeutic algorithm for the management of vagal schwannoma. Results: We were able to identify 10 patients affected by vagal schwannoma and treated between 2000 and 2020. All patients presented with a painless, mobile, slow-growing lateral neck mass with onset varying from a few months to years. The preoperative diagnostic workup included ultrasound (US) in nine cases, computed tomography (CT) with contrast in six patients and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the neck in seven cases. All patients included in this study were surgically treated. Conclusions: Vagal schwannoma management represents a true challenge for clinicians and surgery is currently the most effective therapeutic strategy. A multidisciplinary approach through the collaboration of otolaryngologist with other specialists is desirable to develop a tailored treatment plan for the patient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different surgical techniques have been proposed for parapharyngeal space tumors, including transcervical, transparotid, trans-mandibular, infratemporal, and transoral. The choice of the correct approach depends on the size, localization and nature of the tumor. The transoral approach can be used for benign prestyloid masses, such as tumors of the deep lobe of the parotid gland. It guarantees a short hospitalization without skin scars. The narrowed access represents the main limitation of this technique. This review will summarize and analyze the current knowledge about the transoral approach to parotid lesions. Thirty-seven studies were included in a qualitative and quantitative synthesis. The novelty of this review is the quantitative analyses of the clinical data reported in the included studies.

Papillary carcinoma is the most frequently encountered differentiated thyroid carcinoma. Usually, metastasis occurs along lymphatic pathways in the central compartment and along the jugular chain. Nevertheless, lymph node metastasis in the parapharyngeal space (PS) is a rare but possible event. In fact, a lymphatic pathway has been identified that connects the upper pole of the thyroid and the PS. We describe the case of a 45-year-old man with a two-month history of a right neck mass. He underwent a complete diagnostic path that highlighted the presence of a parapharyngeal mass associated with the presence of a thyroid nodule suspected to be malignant. The patient underwent surgery (thyroidectomy and removal of the PS mass that was found to be a metastatic node of papillary thyroid carcinoma). The aim of this case is to underline the importance of detecting these kinds of lesions. Nodal metastasis in PS from thyroid cancer is a rare occurrence that is not easily detectable by a clinical examination until the metastasis reaches a considerable dimension. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) permit early identification, but unfortunately, these are not usually employed as a first-level imaging technique in patients with thyroid cancer. The treatment of choice is surgery with a transcervical approach that allows for better control of the disease and of the anatomical structures. Non-surgical treatments are usually reserved for patients with advanced disease, with satisfactory results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The head and neck region is a complex anatomical area with vulnerable nervous and vascular structures, auditory and visual organs and upper aero-digestive tract. Penetrating foreign bodies of head and neck region are not uncommon and pertain mostly to wood, metal and glass (Levine et al. in Am J Emerg Med 26:918–922, 2008). This case report describes an airborne high velocity foreign body blown off from a lawn mower penetrating the left side of the face, penetrating deep into nasopharynx and opposite parapharyngeal space through paranasal sinuses. A multidisciplinary team managed this case successfully, avoiding injuries to adjacent vital skull base structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Odontogenic infection is more likely to affect the airway and interfere with intubation than non-odontogenic causes. Although anesthesiologists predict the difficulty of intubation and determine the method, they may encounter unexpected cases of difficult intubation. An inappropriate intubation can cause airway obstruction due to bleeding and edema by damaging the pharynx and larynx. This study was performed to determine the most important imaging findings indicating preoperative selection of an appropriate intubation method. This retrospective study included 113 patients who underwent anti-inflammatory treatment for odontogenic infection. The patients were divided into two groups according to the intubation method: a Macintosh laryngoscope (45 patients) and others (video laryngoscope and fiberscope) (68 patients). The extent of inflammation in each causative tooth, the severity of inflammation (S1–4), and their influence on the airway were evaluated by computed tomography. The causative teeth were mandibular molars in more than 90%. As the severity of inflammation increased, anesthesiologists tended to choose intubation methods other than Macintosh laryngoscopy. In the most severe cases (S4), anesthesiologists significantly preferred other intubation methods (33 cases) over Macintosh laryngoscopy (9 cases). All patients with S4 showed inflammation in the parapharyngeal space, and the airway was affected in 41 patients. The mandibular molars were the causative teeth most likely to affect the airway and surrounding region. In addition to clinical findings, the presence or absence of inflammation that has spread to the parapharyngeal space on preoperative computed tomography was considered an important indicator of the difficulty of intubation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]