The Role of Ultrasonography in Diagnosing and Managing Sialolithiasis: A Case Report and Literature Review

Abstract

Sialolith-induced obstructive sialadenitis is a commonly encountered clinical scenario, yet the variations in the size and location of the stone can complicate immediate clinical assessment. Utilizing dynamic ultrasound imaging along with specific structural markers can provide valuable, immediate objective evidence in diagnosing submandibular sialolithiasis. This initial ultrasound evaluation streamlines the decision-making process by facilitating the timely scheduling of confirmatory computed tomography scans and guiding subsequent surgical interventions. This case report illustrates how in-office ultrasonography expedited the diagnosis and subsequent surgical decision-making process for submandibular sialolithiasis within a span of just 1 week.

Keywords

• obstructive sialadenitis
• sialolithiasis
• ultrasonography