Role of microscope in parotidectomy for identification and preservation of facial nerve: An institutional experience at Tertiary Care Hospital.

Objective: This study presents the authors' experience with performing parotidectomy while using the microscope and its outcomes, particularly concerning the identification and preservation of the facial nerve and its branches. Study Design: Prospective study. Setting: Tertiary Care Hospital; in Rawalpindi. Period: January 2020 to December 2023. Methods: Enrolled 70 patients with parotid lesions treated patient selection was based on the presence of parotid lesions. Data was entered and analysed by using SPSS V.26. Results: The gender distribution was 29 males (41.43%) and 41 females (58.57%), with a mean age of 38.2 years. The majority of cases involved pleomorphic adenoma, constituting 74.28% (n=52) of the total cases. Other tumor types included Warthin tumor (5.71%, n=4), monomorphic adenoma (2.86%, n=2), Mucoepidermoid carcinoma (14.29%, n=10), and adenoid cystic carcinoma (2.86%, n=2). In terms of the type of surgery performed, 82.86% (n=58) of cases underwent superficial parotidectomy, while 17.14% (n=12) underwent total conservative parotidectomy. Regarding facial nerve outcomes, temporary facial nerve paralysis was observed in 8.57% (n=6) of cases, while permanent facial nerve palsy occurred in 2.86% (n=2) of cases. Conclusion: We have seen that a microscope is a very valuable assistant in the identification and preservation of the facial nerve. Thus, we can recommend its use during the procedure in order to prevent morbidity of the patient.