Prospective outcomes following drainless superficial parotidectomy with sternocleidomastoid flap reconstruction

Facial Reconstruction Using Sternocleidomastoid (SCM) Flap: A Review of the Literature

The sternocleidomastoid (SCM) flap has been used for a long time in protective coverage of major vessels, reconstruction of intraoral pharyngeal, closure of pharyngo-cutaneous fistulas, and augmentation of soft tissue defects in the oral and maxillofacial region. However, this flap is not yet commonly used due to doubtful blood supply to the flap. This flap offers favorable esthetic results, combined flap, rich vascularization, and the possibility of shifting the two heads of the muscle. Thus, this flap has been used broadly in the maxillofacial region to reconstruct the defects of the post-parotidectomy, mandible, pharynx, and floor of the mouth defects. Previous studies discussed the use of a SCM flap following parotidectomy. However, few studies explained the use of SCMs in facial reconstruction. This study aims to review published articles discussing the use of SCMs for facial reconstruction.

Postparotidectomy sialocele: A 6-year review of underlying factors

BACKGROUND

Postparotidectomy sialocele is a frustrating challenge. Published rates of postparotidectomy fluid collections range from 6% to 39%. We report our experience of 398 parotidectomies performed over a 6-year period.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review of parotidectomies performed over a 6-year period was completed. Drain placement, smoking status, tumor size, and postoperative utilization of scopolamine were analyzed. Binary logistical regression and odds ratio calculations were performed.

RESULTS

Postparotidectomy sialocele occurred in 25% of patients. Neither suction drain placement nor usage of immediate postoperative scopolamine (in a 22-patient subset) prevented sialocele formation. Smoking status also did not correlate. Increasing resection size was linearly correlated with the risk of sialocele.

CONCLUSION

Drain placement and smoking status do not correlate with sialocele prevention after parotidectomy. Sialocele formation directly correlates with the resection size. These data may guide preoperative counseling; however, additional work is necessary to identify effective prevention mechanisms for postparotidectomy sialocele.