Results of a nationwide survey on the treatment of salivary gland diseases in German hospitals

Background: Salivary gland diseases are an important part of the work of ENT physicians in hospitals. The treatment strategies depend, among other things, on the doctrine at the respective location. Objective: The aim of this questionnaire-based study was to assess the current diagnostic workup and therapeutic strategies for salivary gland diseases in German otorhinolaryngology departments. Materials and methods: A survey was performed using a 25-question online questionnaire sent to all German otorhinolaryngology department directors. Results: The questionnaire was answered by 92 of 175 otorhinolaryngology departments (52.6%). In the diagnosis of salivary gland tumors, a dominance of sonography and MRI was shown. Fine- and core-needle aspiration were not performed by more than 50% of the clinics. The dominant technique for parotidectomy was under microscopic control (82%). In 99% of clinics, EMG was used during resection of the parotid gland for intraoperative monitoring of the facial nerve. There was a trend towards performing partial parotidectomies (85%), lateral parotidectomies (70%), and extracapsular dissections (57%) for benign tumors of the parotid gland. The treatment concepts for malignant tumors were inconsistent. Conclusion: In particular, the treatment strategy and extent of surgery for benign and malignant salivary gland tumors differed depending on location. The choice of palliative (drug) therapy was also diverse. Prospective multicenter studies could help to develop evidence-based treatment strategies.

Automated summary

This survey aimed to assess the diagnostic workup and therapeutic strategies for salivary gland diseases in German otorhinolaryngology departments. The results showed diversity in the diagnosis and treatment methods, with variations in different locations.