Lozano FS, Muñoz A, de Las Heras JA, González-Porras JR. Simple and complex carotid paragangliomas. Three decades of experience and literature review.
Head Neck 2020;
42:3538-3550. [PMID:
32812684 DOI:
10.1002/hed.26421]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Revised: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND
Carotid paragangliomas are rare tumors. They are usually unique, non-secreting, resectable, and benign. However, additional rare cases of complex tumors (bilateral, secretory, nonresectable, or malignant) complicate the management and final outcomes.
METHODS
Records of paragangliomas from our hospital are reviewed. Criteria defining complex paragangliomas have been previously defined. These are compared with those of the simple group.
RESULTS
Fifty patients, two groups: simple (n = 39) and complex (n = 11). The patients in the complex group were significantly younger (47.7 vs 63.8 years). Postoperative nerve complications (45.4% vs 6.3%) and mortality during follow-up (27.3% vs 0%) were significantly more common in the complex group. Vascular complications (0% vs 3.1%) and early mortality (0%) were similarly in both groups.
CONCLUSIONS
Patients with complex carotid paragangliomas are heterogeneous. The former are younger, exhibit a high degree of diagnostic and therapeutic complexity, and have poorer morbidity and mortality. Surgical experience and interdisciplinary collaboration are essential.
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