AIIMS Jammu ENT deptt leads in complex parotid surgeries across J&K

Jammu, May 7: The Department of  Otorhinolaryngology (Head and Neck Surgery) of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS Jammu) has marked a significant milestone in the region’s surgical care landscape by successfully performing more than 10 parotid neoplasm surgeries.

Parotid surgeries involve the removal of tumours—both benign and malignant—from the parotid gland, the largest salivary gland situated near the ear and jawline.

Prof (Dr) Shakti Kumar Gupta, Executive Director and CEO of AIIMS Jammu, commended the department’s accomplishments, stating, “It is a matter of immense pride that our ENT Department is handling such intricate surgeries with excellence. This reflects not only their surgical skill but also the evolving strength of AIIMS Jammu in delivering advanced, high-standard medical care to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.”

“Through a strong commitment to patient-centric, technology-driven care, AIIMS Jammu is rapidly emerging as a regional hub for advanced ENT services. The continued success of parotid neoplasm surgeries is a testament to the institute’s rising stature in delivering high-quality, specialized medical care in Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.

“With this success of the Department, AIIMS Jammu has gained acclaim for its remarkable achievements in parotid gland surgeries—procedures that are both technically demanding and cosmetically sensitive,” he added.

These surgeries require exceptional precision due to the proximity of the facial nerve, which governs vital facial movements. Injury to this nerve can lead to facial paralysis or asymmetry, making meticulous surgical technique essential.

In addition to ensuring nerve preservation, cosmetic outcomes are also a key concern.

“Surgeons at AIIMS Jammu have employed state-of-the-art techniques such as intraoperative facial nerve monitoring, microscopic dissection, and facelift-type incisions to achieve excellent functional and aesthetic results. Patients benefit from minimal visible scarring and quick recovery times,” an AIIMS Jammu spokesperson said.

The department’s achievements are being led by Dr Darwin Kaushal, Head of ENT and Additional Professor, whose vision has been instrumental in establishing the unit as a centre of excellence.

Working alongside him, Dr Amardeep Singh, Associate Professor, and their skilled team have streamlined complex procedures and consistently delivered optimal patient outcomes.

“Looking ahead, the Department of Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery plans to further expand its capabilities in head and neck oncologic surgeries, introduce endoscopic approaches for selected parotid tumours and establish a dedicated Facial Nerve Monitoring and Rehabilitation Unit. The department also aims to conduct regional training workshops. Additionally, it plans to collaborate on multi-centre research initiatives, contributing to the national body of surgical knowledge,” the spokesperson said.