Morbidities after maxillary swing nasopharyngectomy for recurrent nasopharyngeal carcinoma

Head Neck. 2015 Apr;37(4):487-92. doi: 10.1002/hed.23633. Epub 2014 Jun 13.

Abstract

Background: The purpose of this study was to investigate the complications after maxillary swing nasopharyngectomy.

Methods: Salvage nasopharyngectomy was performed for 338 patients during 1990 to 2012. Patient and tumor characteristics, perioperative and intraoperative information, and long-term morbidities were analyzed.

Results: There were significantly more patients with locally advanced tumors (rT3 and rT4) operated during the recent study period (2002-2012). However, the mean operative time and blood loss was significantly lower than in the earlier period (1990-2001). There was no hospital mortality. There was a significant reduction in the postoperative trismus and palatal fistula formation. Patients with locally advanced tumor, particularly those who required adjuvant chemoradiation, had a higher chance of facial numbness, nasal blockage, and swallowing problems after surgery.

Conclusion: Salvage nasopharyngectomy via the maxillary swing approach is safe with acceptable long-term morbidities. Prevention of complications associated with surgery, particularly for patients with locally advanced tumors, is crucial to ensure the best outcome of surgery.

Keywords: complications; maxillary swing; morbidities; recurrent nasopharyngeal carcinoma; salvage.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Blood Loss, Surgical
  • Chemoradiotherapy
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Nasopharyngeal Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Nasopharyngeal Neoplasms / therapy
  • Neoplasm Recurrence, Local / surgery*
  • Neoplasm Recurrence, Local / therapy
  • Otorhinolaryngologic Surgical Procedures / adverse effects
  • Otorhinolaryngologic Surgical Procedures / methods*
  • Pharyngectomy / methods
  • Postoperative Complications / prevention & control
  • Young Adult