Recent Advances in Surgical Management of Parapharyngeal Space Tumors

Dear Colleagues, 

Parapharyngeal space (PPS) lesions represent an arduous challenge due to their rarity, deep location within a high-density anatomical compartment, and wide spectrum of possible histological entities. These lesions usually raise the interest of different consultants, in consideration of the related issues, which range from the clinical, radiological, and histopathological diagnosis, to the choice and achievement of the best treatment strategy able to radically remove the lesion minimizing iatrogenic complications/sequelae. The structure and complex anatomy of the PPS, in fact, makes a growing lesion capable of easily reaching a large volume without significant symptoms/signs on one hand, and to involve crucial vascular and neural structures on the other. Radiological and nuclear medicine investigations are increasingly useful in obtaining an adequate extent definition and biological characterization, preoperatively suggesting the nature of the lesion itself and guiding the ensuing treatment planning. Furthermore, in consideration of the hostile anatomical location and intrinsic histological variability, pretreatment assessment is frequently complex, if even possible at all. Recent evolutions in terms of endoscopy, robotic surgery, and intraoperative neuromonitoring have widened the spectrum of surgical approaches and corridors usable for PPS lesions management, thus minimizing possible complications and sequelae. The aim of the present Special Issue is to collect the latest nuances in the management of PPS lesions, from diagnosis to treatment, from techniques allowing avoidance of complications to rehabilitation. In detail, the focus of the collection will be radiological innovations alone or integrated with radiomics and artificial intelligence software, biomarkers, and surgical treatment overall. In addition to the description of surgical approaches, corridors, and resection techniques, the analysis of oncological and functional outcomes, the management of surgical sequelae, and post-surgical function rehabilitation strategies will well received in this demanding Special Issue.

Prof. Dr. Cesare Piazza
Guest Editor

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• Parapharyngeal space
• Deep lobe parotid tumor
• Vascular tumor
• Neurogenic tumors
• Pre-styloid space
• Post-styloid space
• Transoral approach
• Transcervical approach
• Transnasal approach
• Embolization