Radiofrequency Ablation for Warthin's Tumor

Radiofrequency ablation is minimally invasive and is used in benign disease, including thyroid nodules, head and neck nodules, and vascular malformations, as well as some malignant tumors. For patients unable to or unwilling to undergo surgical resection, real-time ultrasound guided radiofrequency ablation for parotid Warthin's Tumor would be a further option besides observation alone.

Twenty patients with Warthin's tumor from the ENT Head and Neck Surgery out-patient clinic at Prince of Wales Hospital will be recruited. The patient will first be asked if they wanted intervention for their condition of Warthin's Tumor. Parotidectomy will first be offered. If the patient opted for intervention but declines parotidectomy, then ultrasound guided RFA will be offered.

The 2019 - 2020 Parotidectomy for Warthin's tumor internal audit will be used as a historical comparison to the ultrasound guided RFA group.

Inclusion criteria

• 18 years and older
• Ultrasound scan findings:

• Tumor size 2cm-5cm
• Tumor located in superficial lobe of parotid gland with epicenter in Parotid tail
• Tumor is clinically palpable tumor
• Symptomatic disease with facial asymmetry and cosmetic concerns
• Diagnosis confirmed by fine needle aspiration x 2

• Warthin's tumor
• No other parotid pathologies

Exclusion criteria

• Facial nerve palsy
• History of parotid surgery
• History or Symptoms of sialolithiasis
• Medical facial skin conditions
• Bleeding tendencies
• Pregnancy
• Pacemaker