Dana Point, California, USA
Their level of care, caring attitude, professional service of their staff, and skill as surgeons is unsurpassed. I am convinced that I could not have found a better group of people to do this operation. Thank you for myself and my family.
Tumors located deep to the facial nerve called "deep lobe" tumors are rare. If you have a deep lobe tumor make sure your surgeon has extensive experience treating these tumors.
Deep lobe tumor blocks throat
The "deep lobe" of the parotid gland makes up a variable amount of salivary gland tissue lying deep to the facial nerve. Approximately 10% of parotid tumors arise from the "deep lobe", with a small proportion of these developing extensions around the jaw bone and into the deep spaces of the neck lying adjacent to the pharynx or throat. When deep lobe tumors extend beyond the confines of the parotid capsule, they encroach on other important neck structures beyond the facial nerve. These important structures may include the carotid artery, jugular vein, lingual nerve, vagus nerve, and glossopharyngeal nerve. Because of the complexity of structures in and around the space occupied by the tumor, these cases present a greater surgical challenge. Dr. Osborne has extensive experience treating superficial and deep lobe parotid tumors. Diagnosis of deep lobe tumors may be elusive because of their hidden location.
Will my jaw bone need to be split to remove my tumor?
Deep lobe tumor (MRI)
No, Dr. Osborne has perfected techniques that do not require splitting the jaw bone. This significantly reduces post-operative recovery time and pain.
If you think you may have a deep lobe parotid, please call us to speak with Dr. Osborne and discuss treatment of this rare tumor.
Click here to view "Deep Lobe" removal animation »
