Parotid Gland and its Relations

A 52-year-old man presents with a 3-week history of progressive facial swelling over the left parotid region. On examination, there is a firm, non-tender mass palpable anterior to the sternocleidomastoid muscle. Intraoral examination reveals elevation and inward displacement of the soft palate. CT imaging shows a 4 cm heterogeneous mass within the parotid gland with involvement of the styloid process. What is the most appropriate next step in management?

Which anatomical feature best distinguishes the parotid gland from the submandibular gland?

A 52-year-old woman presents with a painless, slow-growing mass in the right parotid region that has been present for 18 months. Clinical examination reveals a mobile, firm nodule in the superficial parotid lobe. Imaging confirms a pleomorphic adenoma. During surgical planning for parotidectomy, the surgeon emphasizes the critical importance of identifying and preserving the structure marked **A** in the diagram. Which of the following best describes why this structure is at highest risk during parotid surgery?

Regarding the anatomical relations and boundaries of the parotid gland, all of the following statements are correct EXCEPT:

Which nerve runs through the parotid gland and divides it into superficial and deep lobes?