Salivary gland operations

The operation of the submandibular gland is performed under general anesthesia. The skin is cut in the natural furrow of the neck about 3 cm below the edge of the lower jaw. The salivary gland is always completely removed along with the part of the discharge tube.

The operation of the parotid gland (parotidectomy) is performed under general anesthesia. The cut of the skin begins in front of the auricle, and then leads a short section down to the neck at the angle of the lower jaw. Most often, the tumor is removed along with a fragment of the salivary gland.

Sublingual gland surgery is most often performed through the mouth, although in some cases it may be necessary to perform an additional incision in the neck.

Sialoendoscopy is a minimally invasive method that allows you to directly view the inside of the ducts leading to the large salivary glands (i.e. the submandibular and parotid glands). During sialoendoscopy, pathologies can be removed from the lumen of the salivary glands. The sialoendoscope is inserted into the lumen of the salivary gland tube through its natural opening in the mouth. Previously, the orifice of the tube is expanded with a set of probes of increasing diameter. If pathological changes are found within the evacuation tube, it is possible to remove them during the same procedure. This is done by micro tools (forceps, drills, baskets, etc.) introduced through the endoscope’s working canal.

Salivary gland surgery is always preceded by a consultation with a specialist in otorhinolaryngology or maxillofacial surgery and an ultrasound examination of the salivary glands.

Salivary gland surgery is always preceded by a consultation with a specialist in otorhinolaryngology or maxillofacial surgery and an ultrasound examination of the salivary glands.

Classic surgical methods of treating salivary gland stones depend on the location of the salivary stone. If the gland is located within the parenchyma, it is necessary to remove it completely. When the stone is near the mouth of the duct, it is removed by cutting the wall of the duct in the oral cavity. Common complications of this type of treatment include postoperative adhesions and recurrence of symptoms. Complete removal of the salivary gland is also associated with a long period of convalescence and additionally carries the risk of various complications, including facial nerve palsy.

Sialoendoscopy, on the other hand, is a minimally invasive procedure. Its advantages include: no cuts on the skin and neck, no risk of damaging the salivary gland and paralysis of the facial nerve, minimal blood loss, and a short recovery period.