Salivary Gland Surgery

What is Salivary Gland Surgery?

Salivary gland surgery involves surgical procedures to treat disorders or conditions affecting the salivary glands, which produce saliva for digestion and oral health. The major salivary glands include the parotid, submandibular, and sublingual glands, along with numerous minor salivary glands. Surgery may be required to remove tumors, treat infections, or manage obstruction of salivary flow caused by stones or strictures.

Conditions Treated in Salivary Gland Surgery

• Benign Tumors: Pleomorphic adenomas, Warthin’s tumors.
• Malignant Tumors: Mucoepidermoid carcinoma, adenoid cystic carcinoma.
• Obstructions: Salivary stones (sialolithiasis) causing pain and swelling. Strictures or narrowing of salivary ducts.
• Infections: Acute or chronic sialadenitis (infection of the salivary glands).
• Cysts and Abscesses: Development of fluid-filled sacs or pus in the glands.
• Trauma or Damage: Injuries affecting gland functionality or ducts.
• Congenital Disorders: Abnormalities in salivary gland structure or function.

Goals of Salivary Gland Surgery

• Disease Management: Removing tumors, treating infections, or addressing obstructions.
• Functional Restoration: Ensuring glands and ducts function properly to maintain saliva production.
• Symptom Relief: Alleviating pain, swelling, or difficulty in chewing and swallowing.
• Prevention of Complications: Avoiding further infection, abscess formation, or spread of malignancy.
• Improved Quality of Life: Restoring normal eating, speaking, and oral health functions.