Carotid body tumor excision via double mandibular osteotomy: highligting the role of the head and neck surgeon in the multidisciplinary management

Abstract

Background: Carotid body is a small mass of tissue in the carotid sinus containing chemoreceptors that monitor levels of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and hydrogen ions in the blood. Carotid body tumors (CBTs) are rare and found at carotid bifurcation. They are painless neck masses, which expand slowly and they could press the neighboring neurovascular tissues. Because of their proximity to cranial nerves, neurological symptoms could present. The tumors are mostly benign. They can present at any age and appear at the same frequency in either sex.

Midline mandibulotomy for large carotid body tumors: A valuable approach

“… 4 For large tumors that extensively involve the adjacent carotid artery and those extending to the parapharyngeal space and/or skull base, the midline mandibulotomy approach is a valuable method because it provides full anatomic access. 5 , 6 …”