Journal of Nepal Medical Association (Aug 2023)

Postoperative Acute Submandibular Sialadenitis: A Case Report

  • Mona Sharma,
  • Sandeep Bohara,
  • Stuti Manandhar,
  • Lumu Manandhar,
  • Shyam Krishna Maharjan

DOI
https://doi.org/10.31729/jnma.8238
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 61, no. 264

Abstract

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Acute postoperative sialadenitis is a rare complication usually after surgery involving extreme head and neck rotation, such as posterior fossa surgery. It is characterized by the development of swelling in the submandibular region, usually contralateral to the surgical side, either immediately or within hours post-operatively. We report a case of a 43-year-old woman who developed sialadenitis leading to upper airway obstruction in the postoperative period. Further, she developed bilateral neck and face swelling. Dexmedetomidine used as an infusion throughout the surgery could be an additional cause. Swelling without signs of inflammation is rapidly progressive and may cause airway obstruction. Therefore, awareness and recognition are important, as a delay in airway securement can cause a complete collapse of the airway.

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