OBJECTIVETo study a new method for repair of facial depression and facial nerve defect after parotid carcinoma resection.

METHODS12 patients with parotid carcinoma and peripheral bone invasion were treated using facial nerve canal dissection and radical resection of the tumor, the parotid gland and the involved facial nerve and bone, including the mastoid, stylomastoid foramen, styloid process and the rear part of the mandible. A sternocleidomastoid muscle flap was elevated and transferred to repair the facial depression. The great annular nerve in the flap was anastomosed with the severed end of the facial nerve in the canal.

RESULTSThe depressed deformity of the parotid area was well corrected in 9 patients. The aesthetic results were compromised in 2 patients because of tumor recurrence and reoperation. The depressed deformity was not corrected in 1 patient because of infection. Postoperatively, the function of the facial nerve recovered to a normal level. The recovery time ranged from 12 to 20 weeks ,with an average of 16.3 weeks. The local control rate of tumor was improved.

CONCLUSIONSImmediate transplantation of the sternocleidomastoid muscle-great auricular nerve flap and facial nerve canal dissection in radical parotidectomy can repair the depressed deformity of the parotid area, restore facial nerve function,and decrease tumor recurrence. The method is an ideal operation with functional recovery.