Sialoendoscopy: A New Diagnostic and Treatment Modality

Abstract

Sialolithiasis is the occurrence of the calcareous deposits in the salivary glands and ducts. Common site of involvement is submandibular and parotid glands and ducts. This prevents the free flow of saliva and stagnation under pressure producing pain and swelling. Many conditions result in salivary duct occlusion such as tumors, foreign bodies, scars, polyps and mucosal plugs. Sialolithiasis is often treated by different modalities. Small stones can be removed by manipulation or use of sialogogues. Larger stones always require surgical removal of the obstruction, sometimes necessitating gland removal. The diagnosis and treatment of obstructions can be problematic because of the limitations of standard imaging technique. With the introduction of salivary gland endoscopy, there has been a major step forward not only in providing an accurate means of diagnosis and locating intraductal obstructions but also in permitting minimally invasive treatment that can successfully manage those blockages not accessible intraorally.

Keywords

• Submandibular and parotid glands
• Sialolithiasis
• Endoscopy
• Instrumentation
• Minimally invasive.