J Neurol Surg B Skull Base 2013; 74 - A270
DOI: 10.1055/s-0033-1336393

Auricular Complications in Lateral Skull Base Neoplasms

Ryan Burgette 1(presenter), Sam Marzo 1, Eric Thorpe 1, John Leonetti 1
  • 1Maywood, IL, USA

Purpose: To review the incidence and management of complications to the auricle that can occur in a series of patients undergoing lateral skull base surgery for advanced parotid and temporal bone neoplasms from July 1999 to September 2012.

Study Design: Retrospective case review.

Materials and Methods: A retrospective case review was performed on all patients undergoing surgery for advanced parotid and temporal bone neoplasms during a 13-year period. The inpatient and outpatient treatment records were reviewed.

Results: During this time, there were 39 cases performed and auricular complications occurred in 5 patients, for an incidence of 12%. Four of these patients required additional procedures that delayed the start of adjuvant radiotherapy.

Conclusions: Auricular complications can occur relatively frequently in patients undergoing surgery for lateral skull base neoplasms. Patients should be aware of this potential complication.