Quality of life (QoL) following transoral robotic surgery (TORS) resection of parapharyngeal space tumours
摘要
Parapharyngeal space tumours (PSTs) can be challenging to manage in view of their distinct location and proximity to vital neurovascular structures. Numerous surgical approaches have been described including minimally invasive techniques utilising transoral robotic surgery (TORS). This study aims to evaluate the role of TORS in the management of PSTs with a special focus on quality of life (QoL) outcomes.
MethodsA systematic search was performed to evaluate the existing literature surrounding the management of PSTs with TORS. In addition, all patients at our tertiary unit were included. Outcomes included patient and tumour details, surgical and QoL outcomes.
ResultsOverall, 7 patients were included from our centre, all of which had complete tumour excision with no cases of recurrence. Mean length of stay was 2.9 days. There were 4 pleomorphic salivary adenomas (PSA), 1 schwannoma, 1 branchial cleft cyst, and 1 retropharyngeal lipoma. In terms of QoL outcomes, no patient required a feeding tube or tracheostomy or experienced any deterioration of their swallow or voice function (measured through GRBAS, FOIS and PSS-HN scores) at any follow-up point. In the existing literature, 18 studies with 127 patients were identified. A weighted analysis revealed the pooled prevalence of complications across these studies as 9.2% (95% C.I. 2.0-19.2).
ConclusionThis study adds support for the use of TORS in the management of parapharyngeal space tumours in carefully selected patients. It is the first to add a QoL evaluation in this clinical context using validated instruments.