When might this service be appropriate?
- Selected pleomorphic adenoma or other parotid tumours
- Suspicious or confirmed parotid malignancy
How is it assessed?
- Facial movement and neck examination, ultrasound/needle sampling and MRI/CT when indicated.
How is care planned?
- Discuss observation versus surgery and the extent of removal according to the diagnosis.
- Cancer may need neck treatment and oncology input; discuss the goals and limits of nerve preservation.
What follow-up and recovery care is needed?
- Follow-up covers drain/wound care, facial movement and eye closure, and pathology review.
Which risks and limitations should be discussed?
- Temporary/permanent facial weakness, earlobe numbness, salivary leakage, sweating with meals (Frey syndrome), scarring, bleeding or infection.
When is prompt or emergency care needed?
- Report inability to close the eye or new facial weakness immediately. Rapid swelling, breathing difficulty or heavy bleeding needs emergency care.
For a life-threatening emergency, seek emergency care or call 999 in Bangladesh.
Frequently asked questions
Can follow-up stop after a benign needle result?
No. Results, imaging, growth and symptoms guide care; selected benign tumours may still require surgery.