A DESCRIPTIVE STUDY OF SIALENDOSCOPY IN THE MANAGEMENT OF CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE SIALADENITIS

Abstract

Background: Diagnostic sialendoscopy is essential to confirm diagnosis of obstruction in the salivary ductal system. Direct visualization of complete ductal system up to terminal branching is possible and any pathology in the ductal lumen can be accurately diagnosed

Objective: To study and improvise the management of chronic obstructive sialadenitis with sialendoscopy.

Methods: 30 patients of age range between 0-70 years of age with salivary gland swelling were studied. These patients after thorough clinical examination and investigations were managed by the sialendoscopy. Sialendoscopy was used both as a diagnostic procedure and for therapeutic intervention when a diagnosis of chronic obstructive sialadenitis was made.

Patients were given appropriate post-operative care and followed up for a period of 6 months. Repeat check sialendoscopy was done for appropriate cases.

Results: The sequelae of sialendoscopy include swelling of the involved gland and pain, which usually subside in one day. There is a low incidence of complications following sialendoscopy. Some patients have persistent swelling of the gland. There is a risk of false passage. The serious complication of duct extirpation is rare but may require emergency gland removal.

Conclusion: In the modern day era of endoscopy, salivary gland excision should no longer be treatment of chronic obstructive sialadenitis. It is only considered when sialendoscopy has failed to offer any benefit and the patient has significant disturbing symptoms due to obstruction.

Keywords: Endoscopy, Parotid Gland, Submandibular Gland, Sublingual Gland, Sialadenitis, Sialendoscopy.