Recurrent pleomorphic adenoma of the parotid gland: report of 126 cases and a review of the literature.

The records of 126 patients with recurrent pleomorphic adenoma of the parotid gland treated at our institution from 1965 to 1985 were retrospectively reviewed. Multiple variables were analyzed to determine tumor behavior and treatment results. Of the study patients, 61% were female and 39% male, with a mean age of 35.6 years at the time of treatment at our institution. The average follow-up period was 14.5 years. Tumor recurrence was 32.5% after one operation at our institution, 7.1% after two operations, and 1.6% after three. Malignant disease occurred in 9 (7.1%) patients. After all surgical procedures, partial facial nerve paralysis was noted in 13.5% and total paralysis in 5.5%. These results suggest low morbidity and good success in tumor eradication with an aggressive surgical approach.