Sundhar Krishnan Gurunathan1, Vikram V. J.2
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of intraoral endoscopic approach for parapharyngeal tumours and comparing it with conventional open approaches.
STUDY DESIGN
This prospective study includes 8 cases, which were managed by the intraoral approach using the endoscope.
SUBJECT
These 8 parapharyngeal tumour cases includes 6 benign and 2 malignant. All cases had intraoral manifestation and were operated intraorally using endoscope. The pathology, length of hospitalisation, postoperative complications, and advantages were evaluated.
RESULTS
Excellent results were obtained in all cases except one malignant case.
DISCUSSION
The external approach is more invasive and morbid. It is cosmetically not appealing. Endoscope offers better visualisation, focus, and magnification with end on view thereby decreasing the postoperative morbidity.
CONCLUSION
Contrary to the external approach, which traverses the neurovascular structures in order to reach the target tissue and is long, the intraoral endoscope route is shorter and right on the target thereby protecting the vital structures.
