Salivary Gland Endoscopy - Know Procedure Of It!

What is Sialendoscopy?

Sialendoscopy or salivary gland endoscopy is a procedure, which examines the salivary gland ducts minimally. This procedure makes use of a mini telescope referred to as micro-endoscope, which is inserted within the opening of the ducts attached to the salivary glands. This allows for careful exploration of the salivary gland ducts and insertion of tiny instruments via the micro-endoscope to eliminate existing particles of debris or salivary stones.

When do you need salivary gland endoscopy?

Salivary gland endoscopy or sialendoscopy is recommended if stones have developed in your salivary duct. This condition is predominantly seen in middle-aged people and is characterized by pain and swelling inside the mouth or the neck, which can turn worse after having a meal.

Other symptoms of salivary duct stones include-

• Dry mouth

• Difficulty swallowing food

• A foul taste inside the mouth

• Fever due to bacterial infection

The above signs may indicate the occurrence of salivary duct stones. In this case, your doctor will recommend salivary gland endoscopy.

Steps of the Procedure-

• Salivary gland endoscopy is performed with the help of local anaesthetic. If it is a part of some other procedure then a general anaesthetic can be used. When the micro-endoscope is inserted tiny cuts sometimes might be needed around the openings for smoother insertion of the endoscope. Making cuts around the duct openings are only required if the opening seems too tight for insertion of the endoscope.

• Once the mini-endoscope is inside, the doctor/surgeon will examine the drainage tubes. The ducts need constant rinsing with a fluid. The rinsing will lead to a temporary inflammation of the gland but the inflammation will subside within one day. The micro-endoscope allows for effective removal of tiny stones. Large stones are broken down into miniature versions and then eliminated via the endoscope. In certain cases, a combination of the surgical procedure and the endoscopic method is needed. This combination is aimed only at large stones that are stuck and are difficult to remove from the duct. The stricture of the duct needs to be narrowed and stretched for better flow of saliva.

• The healthcare provider can also clean the salivary glands with salty or saline water and/or other medications such as antibiotics and steroids. Saliendoscopy is a procedure that requires the patient to stay in the hospital overnight while the surgeon carries out the procedure in the oral surgery department.

After this procedure, the doctor will recommend the patient to consume soft, bland food. If you experience discomfort due to swelling you can opt for gentle message upon the advice of your supervising doctor.