Anatomical study of the submandibular gland duct after removal of a distal stone without sialodochoplasty: a sialographic evaluation of a clinical phase II trial

Abstract

Transoral removal of a distal salivary stone is common. We have used postoperative sialography to evaluate the results and changes in the salivary ducts after removal of a salivary distal stone without sialodochoplasty. Of 20 patients who had had transoral operations for submandibular stones, 19 recovered normally with no recurrence. One developed partial stenosis and one a spontaneous neo-opening as a result of severe adhesions and inflammation between the salivary stone and the duct. None of the patients had any symptoms of recurrence during the 12 -month follow-up. Sialodochoplasty may not be necessary in patients who have had a distal salivary stone removed. Removal without sialodochoplasty resulted in full anatomical recovery of the salivary ducts. (C) 2016 Published by Elsevier Ltd on behalf of The British Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons.