Sialoendoscopy

Sialoendoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to diagnose and treat diseases of the salivary glands. It involves the insertion of a small, flexible endoscope, typically less than 2 millimeters in diameter, into the salivary duct. This endoscope is equipped with a camera and a light source, allowing the surgeon to visualize the interior of the duct and the gland itself. Diagnostic sialoendoscopy can help identify blockages, inflammation, stones, and tumors within the salivary system. Once a diagnosis is made, therapeutic sialoendoscopy can be employed to treat these conditions. Small salivary stones can be removed, strictures or narrowings can be dilated, and irrigations can be performed to clear obstructions. In some cases, medications can also be delivered directly into the gland through the endoscope. The procedure is usually performed under local or general anesthesia and typically involves a short recovery period. It offers an alternative to more traditional open surgical approaches, which can be more invasive and result in longer recovery times and potential scarring. Sialoendoscopy is primarily used for conditions affecting the parotid, submandibular, and sublingual salivary glands. It has become an important tool in the management of salivary gland pathologies, offering a less invasive option for both diagnosis and treatment.