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Objectives: The study aims to provide insights into the characteristics of Polish patients with different salivary gland pathologies. Materials and methods: This is a retrospective study conducted at a single center, including patients who underwent surgery for salivary gland pathologies between 2012 and 2022. Results: This study included 239 patients who underwent surgery for salivary gland tumors or inflammatory diseases. Malignant tumors were diagnosed in 9.8% of participants, while 64% had benign tumors and 21% suffered from inflammation. The occurrence of complications after surgery was relatively low, with 9.9% of participants experiencing slight facial weakness or mild dysfunction, and 3% experiencing complete paralysis of the facial nerves. Significant differences were observed between patients with cancers and those with benign tumors and inflammation in terms of age. Cancers were more common in females (67% vs. 33%) and predominantly localized in the parotid glands (95%). Conclusion: Benign tumors, such as Warthin's tumors and polymorphous adenoma, were predominantly found in the parotid glands of patients aged 39–72 years. On the other hand, inflammatory diseases were primarily localized within the submandibular glands of males aged 40–68 years. Additionally, the presence of a malignant tumor was associated with longer hospitalization periods related to surgery and a higher risk of severe complications. Clinical relevance: This study on Polish patients with salivary gland tumors provides valuable clinical insights that can aid in diagnosis, treatment planning, patient counseling, and further research in the field of oncology. It contributes to the overall understanding of salivary gland tumors, potentially benefiting both patients and healthcare providers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surgeons used to be unaware of the facial nerve's position during parotid surgery. Now, with special magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sequences, it can be located and converted into a 3D model displayed on an augmented reality (AR) device for surgeons to study and manipulate. This study explores the accuracy and usefulness of the technique for the treatment of benign and malignant parotid tumours. A total of 20 patients with parotid tumours had 3-Tesla MRI scans, and their anatomical structures were segmented using Slicer software. The structures were imported into a Microsoft HoloLens 2® device, displayed in 3D, and shown to the patient for consent. Intraoperative video recording was used to record the position of the facial nerve in relation to the tumour. The predicted path of the nerve taken from the 3D model was combined with surgical observation and video recording in all cases. The imaging proved to have application in both benign and malignant disease. It also improved the process of informed patient consent. Three-dimensional MRI imaging of the facial nerve within the parotid gland and its display in a 3D model is an innovative technique for parotid surgery. Surgeons can now see the nerve's position and tailor their approach to each patient's tumour, providing personalised care. The technique eliminates the surgeon's blind spot and is a significant advantage in parotid surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surgery is the treatment of choice for tumours in the parotid gland. We evaluated complications following parotid surgery. We conducted a retrospective study on 554 patients undergoing parotid surgery for benign parotid tumours from 2012 to 2021. We analysed complication rates between extracapsular dissection (ECD) and superficial parotidectomy (SP). We found 19 capsular ruptures in patients undergoing ECD (5.34%) and five among those undergoing SP (2.52%) [p < 0,05]; 16 cases of temporary facial paralysis among those undergoing ECD (4.49%) and 35 in patients undergoing SP (17.67%) [p < 0,05]; and eight instances of permanent facial nerve paralysis in patients undergoing ECD (2.25%) [p > 0,05] and 13 in patients undergoing SP (6.56%). Among the mid-term complications described were: 22 salivary fistulas among patients operated with ECD (6.18%) [p > 0,05] and 17 in patients with SP (8.58%) 17 sialoceles in those who underwent ECD (4.77%) and seven with SP (3.53%) [p > 0,05]. Regarding late complications, we found: surgical wound dehiscence, pathological scarring (keloid), Frey's syndrome, and recurrence, which affected 45 patients with ECD (12.64%) and 21 with SP for dehiscence (10.6%) [p < 0,05]; 28 keloids in patients with ECD (7.86%) and 15 in patients with SP (7.57%) [p > 0,05]; 12 cases of Frey's syndrome in patients with ECD (3.37%) and 36 with SP (18.18%) [p < 0,05]; and finally 22 recurrences in patients who underwent ECD (6.18%) and 13 in patients who underwent SP (6.56%) [p > 0,05], including 30 in the 273 patients with pleomorphic adenoma and five in the 214 patients with Warthin's tumour. We can conclude that the onset of the different complications after parotid gland surgery are related to the surgery performed. Our data confirm that there is a tight relationship between type of surgery performed and type of complication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Parotid surgery is historically performed as an inpatient procedure and suctions drains are predominantly used during surgery. Recent literature provides evidence that outpatient parotid surgery is safe and effective. Our study aims to describe the results of drainless outpatient parotidectomy and outpatient parotidectomy with drain placement and compare their outcomes. Design: Retrospective cohort study. Setting: Bi‐institutional retrospective cohort study. Participants: Patients that underwent outpatient drain‐less parotidectomy and patients that underwent outpatient parotidectomy with post‐operative drain placement. Main Outcome Measures: Complication rates, unplanned post‐operative visits, unplanned prolonged stay. Results: Three hundred eighty patients underwent outpatient parotidectomy with drain placement and 31 patients underwent outpatient drainless parotidectomy in two different hospitals. The incidence of haematoma (drain: 3.1% vs. drainless: 0%, p = 1), infection (drain: 14.3% vs. drainless: 13.8%, p = 1) and salivary fistula (drain: 5.6% vs. drainless: 3.4, p = 1) were comparable between both groups. Seroma or sialocele was more frequently seen in the drain‐less group (27.6% vs. 6.2%, p <.001), but were all managed conservatively. Within 10 days after surgery, unplanned visits seemed more frequent in the drain group, although the difference was not statistically significant (14.9% vs. 3.4%, p =.16). Conclusions: Outpatient parotid surgery with or without the use of a post‐operative drain is safe, practical and feasible. Same‐day discharge with and without drain placement yield comparable outcomes. However, the results need to be interpreted cautiously as this study was limited by a small cohort of parotidectomies without drain placement. Future studies should further compare both approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salivary gland carcinomas (SGCs) are the most heterogeneous subgroup of head and neck malignant tumors, accounting for more than 20 subtypes. The median age of SGC diagnosis is expected to rise in the following decades, leading to crucial clinical challenges in geriatric oncology. Elderly patients, in comparison with patients aged below 65 years, are generally considered less amenable to receiving state-of-the-art curative treatments for localized disease, such as surgery and radiation/particle therapy. In the advanced setting, chemotherapy regimens are often dampened by the consideration of cardiovascular and renal comorbidities. Nevertheless, the elderly population encompasses a broad spectrum of functionalities. In the last decades, some screening tools (e.g. the G8 questionnaire) have been developed to identify those subjects who should receive a multidimensional geriatric assessment, to answer the question about the feasibility of complex treatments. In the present article, we discuss the most frequent SGC histologies diagnosed in the elderly population and the relative 5-years survival outcomes based on the most recent data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program. Moreover, we review the therapeutic strategies currently available for locoregionally advanced and metastatic disease, taking into account the recent advances in precision oncology. The synergy between the Multidisciplinary Tumor Board and the Geriatrician aims to shape the most appropriate treatment pathway for each elderly patient, focusing on global functionality instead of the sole chronological age.

Introduction. Salivary glands lithiasis (Sialolithiasis) is defined as calcified concretions in the salivary glands. Most common localization is in submandibular gland. Usually, submandibular stones are mainly located in Wharton's duct, whereas parotid stones are more often located in the gland parenchyma. Sialoliths are usually 5-10 mm in size, and stones more than 10 mm are unusual sizes. Exact etiology of sialolith formation is still unknown. Case Report. We discuss a case of a 70-year-old patient, presenting painful swelling and a giant submandibular gland sialolith successfully treated with open surgery. Conclusions. A careful anamnesis and physical examination of the patient are important in the diagnosis of sialolithiasis. In addition, several imaging techniques, such as panoramic X-rays and Ultrasound, can be applied. The management can be both medical and surgical. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Temporary facial nerve palsy after parotid tumor surgery ranges from 14 to 65%, depending on surgery, tumor type, and subsite. The study aimed to evaluate the role of Kabat physical rehabilitation in the outcomes of patients affected by severe facial nerve palsy following parotid gland surgery. The results and clinical data of two groups, Kabat and non-Kabat (control), were statistically compared. Descriptive statistics, the multiple linear regression model, difference in difference approach, and the generalized linear model were used. F-Test, Chi-square test, McFadden R-squared, and adjusted R-squared were used to assess the significance. The results showed that the House–Brackmann (HB) stage of patients who had physiotherapy performed were lower than the control group. The decrease of HB staging in the Kabat group at 3 months was −0.71 on average, thus the probability of having a high HB stage decreased by about 13% using Kabat therapy. The results are statistically significant, and indicated that when the Kabat rehabilitation protocol is performed, mainly in the cases of a high-grade HB score, the patients showed a better and faster improvement in postoperative facial nerve palsy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aimed to estimate the fine needle aspiration cytology's (FNAC) diagnostic accuracy in differentiating neoplastic from inflammatory lesions (Q1) and malignant from their benign counterparts (Q2). Methods: We present a retrospective case series covering a single University Hospital and six attending head and neck surgeons over eight years (January 2011 to July 2017). We concentrated on adults with clinically suspected parotid gland lesions. We offered all patients FNAC biopsy preoperatively, and the final diagnosis was established based on the findings of the final histology. The FNAC and histology results were cross-tabulated in a 2 x 2 contingency table, from which we calculated the diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values. Results: From 212 consecutive patients reviewed, and after excluding thirteen cases (8 %) of valid but non-diagnostic FNAC, 161 cases (50 females and 111 males) fulfilled set eligibility criteria. The most common diagnosis was Warthin tumors (53 patients, 34 %), followed by pleomorphic adenomas (52 patients, 33.5 %). The sensitivity and specificity of FNAC in differentiating neoplastic from non-neoplastic lesions and in segregating malignant from benign conditions were estimated to be as high as 50 % and 97 %, and 98 % and 93 %, respectively. Conclusion: FNAC is moderately effective in differentiating non-neoplastic from neoplastic disease and highly accurate in selecting malignant lesions from benign ones. Although the lack of FNAC sensitivity can occasionally be problematic, it still comprises a valuable tool in salivary gland surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Facial nerve palsy (FNP) is a well-recognized complication following parotidectomy, with varying reported incidence rates in the literature. Understanding the incidence and factors contributing to FNP is crucial for optimizing patient care and surgical outcomes. A retrospective analysis was conducted on 78 patients who underwent parotidectomy at a tertiary care institution (Hospital de Especialidades Carlos Andrade Marin, Quito) over a 36-month period. Demographic data, preoperative pathology reports, surgical details, and postoperative outcomes, including FNP incidence and severity, were analyzed. The mean age of the cohort was 53 years, with a male-to-female ratio of 0.8:1. Fine needle aspiration revealed benign pathology in 70.5% of cases, with superficial parotidectomy being the most common surgical approach (84.6%). Postoperatively, FNP was observed in 51.2% of cases, with transient paralysis in 62.5% and persistent paralysis in 37.5%. The majority of FNP cases were classified as grade II and III according to the House-Brackmann grading system. A tumor size larger than 4 cm was associated with a higher incidence of FNP (57.5%). This study provides valuable insights into the incidence and severity of FNP following parotidectomy. Despite efforts to standardize surgical techniques, persistent paralysis remains a significant concern., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2024, Otanez et al.)

Temporary facial nerve palsy after parotid tumor surgery ranges from 14 to 65%, depending on surgery, tumor type, and subsite. The study aimed to evaluate the role of Kabat physical rehabilitation in the outcomes of patients affected by severe facial nerve palsy following parotid gland surgery. The results and clinical data of two groups, Kabat and non-Kabat (control), were statistically compared. Descriptive statistics, the multiple linear regression model, difference in difference approach, and the generalized linear model were used. F-Test, Chi-square test, McFadden R-squared, and adjusted R-squared were used to assess the significance. The results showed that the House–Brackmann (HB) stage of patients who had physiotherapy performed were lower than the control group. The decrease of HB staging in the Kabat group at 3 months was −0.71 on average, thus the probability of having a high HB stage decreased by about 13% using Kabat therapy. The results are statistically significant, and indicated that when the Kabat rehabilitation protocol is performed, mainly in the cases of a high-grade HB score, the patients showed a better and faster improvement in postoperative facial nerve palsy.

The article describes a case of fibrous proximal salivary ductal stricture in a 42-year-old female patient with five years of intermittent, painful right parotid swelling aggravated by meals and relieved with antibiotics. Topics include the etiologies and diagnostic imaging options for ductal stricture, a description of the findings of the patient's sialendoscopy and histopathologic examination, and the invasive surgical treatment options for ductal stricture.

Objectives: The study aims to provide insights into the characteristics of Polish patients with different salivary gland pathologies., Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective study conducted at a single center, including patients who underwent surgery for salivary gland pathologies between 2012 and 2022., Results: This study included 239 patients who underwent surgery for salivary gland tumors or inflammatory diseases. Malignant tumors were diagnosed in 9.8% of participants, while 64% had benign tumors and 21% suffered from inflammation. The occurrence of complications after surgery was relatively low, with 9.9% of participants experiencing slight facial weakness or mild dysfunction, and 3% experiencing complete paralysis of the facial nerves. Significant differences were observed between patients with cancers and those with benign tumors and inflammation in terms of age. Cancers were more common in females (67% vs. 33%) and predominantly localized in the parotid glands (95%)., Conclusion: Benign tumors, such as Warthin's tumors and polymorphous adenoma, were predominantly found in the parotid glands of patients aged 39-72 years. On the other hand, inflammatory diseases were primarily localized within the submandibular glands of males aged 40-68 years. Additionally, the presence of a malignant tumor was associated with longer hospitalization periods related to surgery and a higher risk of severe complications., Clinical Relevance: This study on Polish patients with salivary gland tumors provides valuable clinical insights that can aid in diagnosis, treatment planning, patient counseling, and further research in the field of oncology. It contributes to the overall understanding of salivary gland tumors, potentially benefiting both patients and healthcare providers., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

Regenerative medicine aims to repair, replace, or restore function to tissues damaged by aging, disease, or injury. Partial organ resection is not only a common clinical approach in cancer therapy but also an experimental injury model used to examine mechanisms of regeneration and repair in organs. We performed a partial resection, or partial sialoadenectomy, in the female murine submandibular salivary gland (SMG) to establish a model for investigation of repair mechanisms in salivary glands (SGs). After partial sialoadenectomy, we performed whole-gland measurements over a period of 56 d and found that the gland increased slightly in size. We used microarray analysis and immunohistochemistry (IHC) to examine messenger RNA and protein changes in glands over time. Microarray analysis identified dynamic changes in the transcriptome 3 d after injury that were largely resolved by day 14. At the 3-d time point, we detected gene signatures for cell cycle regulation, inflammatory/repair response, and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling in the partially resected glands. Using quantitative IHC, we identified a transient proliferative response throughout the gland. Both secretory epithelial and stromal cells expressed Ki67 that was detectable at day 3 and largely resolved by day 14. IHC also revealed that while most of the gland underwent a wound-healing response that resolved by day 14, a small region of the gland showed an aberrant sustained fibrotic response characterized by increased levels of ECM deposition, sustained Ki67 levels in stromal cells, and a persistent M2 macrophage response through day 56. The partial submandibular salivary gland resection model provides an opportunity to examine a normal healing response and an aberrant fibrotic response within the same gland to uncover mechanisms that prevent wound healing and regeneration in mammals. Understanding regional differences in the wound-healing responses may ultimately affect regenerative therapies for patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This paper reports a rare case of a 61-year-old man with sialodochitis fibrinosa. Methods: Clinical case report and review of current literature. Results: Sialodochitis fibrinosa is a diagnosis of exclusion and in many cases can be managed conservatively. Conservative management failed for this patient and he was managed successfully with staged bilateral total parotidectomy. Conclusion: Sialodochitis fibrinosa should be considered as a differential diagnosis of painful bilateral facial swelling. While conservative management is successful for many patients, staged bilateral total parotidectomy may be necessary for full remission of symptoms; the timing of this is crucial to reduce the risk of facial nerve palsy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lip swellings may present as a common finding in clinical practice, and the causative factors could include a variety of local and systemic factors. Here we report a case of recurrent lip swelling in a 48-year-old male patient of Indian origin with no specific etiology or signs. The patient underwent a detailed investigation, and the diagnosis was made as ''cheilitis glandularis-CG'' on histopathological examination. CG is a rare disorder characterized by hyperplasia of the labial mucous glands and heterotopic mixed salivary glands as well as ectasia of glandular ducts. The patient was treated successfully with oral and topical corticosteroid with satisfactory improvement. The present case may provide an insight to the clinicians for a collaborative approach in the diagnosis of lip swelling and its management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Congenital salivary gland fistulas are uncommon. They develop as a result of abnormalities of the first and second branchial arches. Operative and nonoperative methods of management have been described. We report two rare cases of congenital parotid fistula presenting to us in infancy that were managed surgically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Little is known regarding the long-term adverse effects of a sialoadenectomy. The purpose of this study was to estimate the risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) among patients receiving a sialoadenectomy procedure by utilizing a cohort study based on a population-based database in Taiwan. This study retrieved data of the study sample from the Longitudinal Health Insurance Database 2005. This retrospective cohort study included 608 patients who underwent a sialoadenectomy and 1824 propensity score-matched comparison patients. We individually tracked each sampled patient for a 3-year period from their index date to discriminate those who subsequently received a diagnosis of CHD during the follow-up period. We found that respective incidence rates of CHD during the 3-year follow-up period were 3.87 (95% confidence interval (CI): 3.01–4.91) and 1.79 (95% CI: 1.45–2.18) per 100 person-years for patients who did and those who did not undergo a sialoadenectomy. The stratified Cox proportional analysis revealed that the hazard ratio of CHD during the 3-year follow-up period was 2.43 (95% CI: 1.77–3.33) than comparison patients. This study demonstrates an association between sialoadenectomy and CHD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pharyngocutaneous fistula is a cause of significant morbidity following laryngectomy. Routine use of salivary bypass tubes during laryngectomy has been proposed to reduce the incidence of fistulae and neopharyngeal strictures. Method: Following a systematic search of Embase, Medline and Cochrane databases (1946 – current), included articles were assessed for bias according to the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. Results: Three case–control trials showed reduced pharyngocutaneous fistula rates with the use of salivary bypass tubes; six case series reported widely varied fistula rates. With regards to stricture rates, the largest case–control trial found no improvement with salivary bypass tube use. No fatal adverse events were observed among the 204 patients who received a salivary bypass tube. Conclusion: Low-level evidence suggests salivary bypass tubes may reduce the incidence of fistula in high-risk patient groups. A robust randomised controlled trial, or large, multicentre cohort studies, are needed to further examine this intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/aims: Plunging ranulas are oral mucoceles that often cannot be visualized directly and thus can be challenging to diagnose and differentiate from other neck lesions. Surgery is the preferred treatment option, but the optimal approach requires careful consideration.Methods: We report the case of a plunging ranula presenting as an isolated neck mass in a 33-year-old patient. This patient was treated with a novel transoral robotic surgery (TORS)-assisted approach aided by sialendoscopy.Results: TORS allowed for exceptional visualization and access to the plunging ranula and sublingual gland while avoiding critical neurovascular structures. The patient healed well without recurrence or complications.Conclusion: The TORS approach with sialendoscopy for plunging ranulas described in this case report shows promise and should be considered for certain clinical presentations. Additional studies evaluating the effectiveness of TORS for plunging ranulas may be indicated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the efficacy of sialendoscopy in the management of adult chronic recurrent parotitis without sialolithiasis. In addition, preliminary results of an initial randomized placebo-controlled trial of single-dose intraductal steroid injection given concurrently with sialendoscopy, are presented.Methods: Forty-nine adult patients with chronic recurrent parotitis without sialoliths were included in this study. They underwent sialendoscopy and were randomized to receive either a concurrent intraductal injection of isotonic saline solution or 125 mg of hydrocortisone. Symptom severity was evaluated with visual analogue scale (VAS) and by recording symptom frequency and course with a multiple-choice questionnaire completed preoperatively and at 3, 6, and 12 months after the procedure.Results: The mean VAS score was 5.6 preoperatively and dropped to 2.9 at 3 months, 3.0 at 6 months, and 2.7 at 12 months after the procedure. The VAS score and the frequency of symptoms were significantly lower at 3 (p < 0.001), 6 (p < 0.001) and 12 (p < 0.001) months after the procedure when compared with the preoperative scores indicating that sialendoscopy reduces the symptoms of recurrent parotitis. However, complete permanent resolution of symptoms was rare. Single-dose steroid injection concomitant to sialendoscopy provided no additional benefit, but the current study is not sufficiently powered to determine a clinical difference between the steroid and non-steroid groups.Conlusion: Sialendoscopy appears to reduce the symptoms of chronic recurrent parotitis. While total permanent symptom remission is rare, sialendoscopy can be considered a safe and relatively efficacious treatment method for this patient group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The primary aim of this study is to conduct a systematic review in order to evaluate the use of sialendoscopy in treating pediatric salivary gland disorders.Methods: Eligible articles were identified through a comprehensive search of electronic databases. Using predefined inclusion criteria, published articles on sialendoscopy in children were selected and reviewed.Results: 17 articles including 323 pediatric patients and 424 salivary glands managed by sialendoscopy were identified. The most common salivary gland disorder affected was the parotid (83% of cases), followed by the submandibular gland (16.5% of cases). Juvenile recurrent parotitis (68.9%) was the most frequent diagnosis followed by sialolithiasis (14.7%). The most common complication was ductal perforation. During a pooled mean follow-up time of 18.3 months, recurrences were reported in 14.5% of patients mostly in patients diagnosed with juvenile recurrent parotitis.Conclusion: Sialendoscopy is a minimally invasive diagnostic and therapeutic tool for inflammatory salivary gland disorders in pediatric patients. Based on the current review, sialendoscopy can be successfully implemented in cases of pediatric salivary gland disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To evaluate the role of sialoendoscopy associated with steroid irrigation for juvenile recurrent parotitis (JRP) at a tertiary referral hospital. Methods Clinical records of patients affected by JRP and treated with operative sialoendoscopy between June 2011 and April 2017 were retrospectively reviewed. Data on demographics, number of acute episodes per year before and after surgery, characteristics of the surgical procedure, hospitalization time, and rate of complications were collected. The outcome of the procedure was measured by comparing the number of episodes of parotid swelling before and after salivary endoscopic treatment. Results Twenty-three patients for a total of 34 operative sialoendoscopies were included in the study. Before the surgical endoscopic procedure, the mean number of parotid swelling was 10 episodes per year. At sialoendoscopy, typical endoscopic findings such as mucous plugs, stenosis of the duct, intraductal debris, and pale ductal appearance were evident. All patients were discharged on the first postoperative day. A significant decrease in the number of swelling episodes per year was observed compared to the preoperative rate (p = .0004). Complete resolution of the disorder was obtained in 35% of patients. Conclusions Operative sialoendoscopy with steroid irrigation can be considered a valid therapeutic treatment for JRP. The technique is conservative, effective, safe, and, potentially repeatable. Short hospitalization time, rapid recovery, absence of peri-operative complications, and a high rate of good outcomes are the main advantages of this treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sialolithiasis is rare in children, there are no guidelines for its treatment, and there are few, if any, long term follow-up studies. We report a retrospective review of medical records of children who were treated for sialolithiasis by sialendoscopy between 1 January 2007 and 31 December 2011, and who have been followed up for 4-8 years. Personal and clinical details, including age, sex, symptoms, whether the lithiasis was parotid or submandibular, the technique of sialendoscopy and complications, were recorded. Twenty-six children (30 sides) were successfully treated by sialendoscopy between 2007 and 2011 (mean (range) age 12 (3-17) years). Stones were removed from the parotid gland in four patients and the submandibular gland in 22. The main indication for sialendoscopy was swelling of the salivary gland during meals. Twenty-six procedures were done endoscopically. Twelve were treated with a wire basket alone, 10 by the combined approach, and laser was used in eight. Four patients developed complications, but without long-term effects. During follow-up of 4-8 years there were no recurrent swellings. We conclude that endoscopic treatment of stones in childhood is an efficient and conservative option for salivary glands, has few complications and no clinical recurrence at medium to long-term follow-up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to assess the value of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) in the detection of salivary stones in patients with signs and symptoms of salivary gland obstruction. A total of 142 major salivary glands were analysed in a cohort of 127 patients with signs and symptoms of salivary gland obstruction. CBCT scans were performed in order to determine the presence of one or more salivary stones. All glands were also investigated by sialendoscopy. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy were calculated for the submandibular gland, the parotid gland, and the whole group, based on the observers’ abilities to diagnose the presence or absence of calculi in the CBCT scan using the sialendoscopy data as the gold standard. Fifty salivary stones were detected in the CBCT scans of the 142 glands analysed: 34 in the submandibular gland and 16 in the parotid gland. The sensitivity (94%), specificity (90%), positive predictive value (84%), and negative predictive value (97%) for the whole group were good to excellent, with an overall accuracy of 92%. CBCT appears to be an ideal first-line imaging modality for patients with signs and symptoms of obstructed major salivary glands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to determine the effect of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADSCs) combined with heterologous platelet-rich fibrin extract (PRFe) on irradiation-induced salivary gland (SG) damage. ADSCs were isolated from C3H mice, whereas PRFe was obtained from New Zealand rabbits. Twelve weeks post irradiation, the ADSCs or PRFe or their combination were transplanted into the submandibular glands of C3H mice with irradiation-induced damage. The salivary flow rate (SFR) was determined and histopathological analysis was performed at 12 weeks post transplantation. Immunofluorescence, microvessel density measurements and transmission electron microscopy were performed to assess α-amylase (AMY) production, apoptosis and microstructural changes in the cells. The administration of ADSCs combined with PRFe increased the SFR at 12 weeks post transplantation, whereas ADSCs alone or PRFe alone failed to do so. The ADSCs+PRFe-treated, irradiated SGs had fewer damaged and atrophied acinar cells, higher AMY levels and an increased microvessel density compared with the untreated irradiated SGs. Moreover, SG tissue from the ADSCs+PRFe group also showed decreased apoptotic and increased proliferative activity compared to that from the irradiated group. In conclusion, ADSCs or PRFe alone did not restore permanent, irradiation-induced damage of SG tissue when used alone, but when used together, they provided effective treatment outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sialendoscopy is gaining in popularity in treating calculus disease. The delicacy of the instrument and the diameter of the salivary ducts are factors that limit the ability to achieve complete success. There is also continued speculation regarding the utility of the procedure, especially among clinicians who are masters of conventional methods like sialadenectomy and sialodochotomy. Objective: To assess the efficacy of sialendoscopy over conventional methods in treating sialolithiasis. Methods: A prospective case control study was conducted in a tertiary care centre; this study involved 50 patients of sialolithiasis, and it extended over a 36-month period. All had undergone treatment, either by conventional methods or interventional sialendoscopy. All patients with nonpalpable calculi smaller than 6 mm underwent interventional sialendoscopy. Failed sialendoscopies and larger nonpalpable calculi were removed through sialadenectomy. The outcome variables studied included calculus removal, postoperative symptoms, and gland preservation. Results: The success rate in terms of calculus removal by sialendoscopy was 88%, versus 100% by sialadenectomy. The salivary gland was preserved in 88% of the cases in the sialendoscopy group. Only 12% of patients were symptomatic. Conclusion: Sialendoscopy was effective in removing calculi of various sizes; it was definitely superior to conventional methods. Sialadenectomy should be reserved for cases either not suitable for sialendoscopy or in which there was an intervention failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The role fine-needle aspiration (FNA) in the diagnosis of salivary gland lesions has evolved over the years. Although clinical and radiological parameters help to narrow the differential diagnosis the tissue diagnosis still remains the gold standard. Materials and Methods: This study is from January 2013 to December 2015 in our Department of Pathology where 170 salivary gland lesions were aspirated. The aim of the present study was to analyze adequacy rate in relation to the size of lesion and to evaluate varied cytological spectrum of salivary gland lesions with emphasis on differential diagnosis and to correlate cytological diagnosis with age, gender and anatomical site. Results: The 170 cytological smears were categorized into two groups: Group 1 adequate aspirations (88.2%), Group 2 inadequate aspirations (11.7%). The adequate aspirations were subdivided as neoplastic (53.33%) and nonneoplastic (46.66%). The distribution of the various neoplastic lesions (80;53.33%) were 66 (82.5%) benign, 12 (15%) were malignant and 2 (2.5%) were suspicious of malignancy. Among benign neoplasms, the pleomorphic adenoma (62; 93.3%) was the most frequent followed by Warthins tumor (4;6%). The most common malignant neoplasms were adenoid cystic carcinoma (6;50%), followed by mucoepidermoid carcinoma (4;33.3%), malignant lymphoma (1; 8.3%) and metastatic carcinomatous deposits (1;8.3%). In two cases, cytological picture indicated suspicion for malignancy however specific tumor typing could not be done. The neoplasms occurred more frequently in the parotid gland (65%), followed by submandibular gland (21.3%) and minor salivary glands (13.8%). The nonneoplastic lesions (70) included 68.6% cases of chronic sialadenitis, 17.1% cases were reported as mucocele, 11.4% cases of acute sialadenitis 2.9% cases as tubercular granulomas. Conclusion: FNA cytology provides useful information on the management of salivary gland lesions and prevents unnecessary surgery in cases of nonneoplastic lesions and identification of malignancy helps the surgeon in deciding type and extent of surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Background The purpose of this study was to test the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) nomogram in predicting recurrence risk of major salivary gland carcinoma in an Asian cohort. Methods We retrospectively enrolled 149 patients who had undergone intended curative resections for major salivary gland carcinoma between 2007 and 2012. The performance of the MSKCC nomogram and the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) seventh staging system in predicting recurrence risk was compared. Results The MSKCC nomogram and the AJCC staging system both accurately predicted the 5-year recurrence probabilities, with the concordance index (c-index = 0.82; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.75-0.89 vs c-index, 0.77; 95% CI, 0.68-0.87; p = .45) in patients with major salivary gland carcinomas after curative surgeries. Comparing to the actual observed events, the calibration plot indicated that the MSKCC nomogram accurately estimated the recurrence in low-risk groups but tended to overestimate in high-risk groups. When using the MSKCC nomogram to predict the 5-year recurrence-free probability in each AJCC stage, the prediction was very good for patients with AJCC stages I and II disease (c-index = 0.92 and 0.90, respectively) and modest for those of AJCC stages III and IVa (c-index = 0.51 and 0.62, respectively). Conclusion The MSKCC nomogram and the AJCC staging system each had its value in predicting recurrence of major salivary gland cancers. When using the MSKCC nomogram to predict the 5-year recurrence-free probability in each AJCC stage, the MSKCC nomogram was more accurate in predicting recurrence risks in those patients with AJCC stage I and II diseases than those with late-stage diseases. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 39: 860-867, 2017 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conclusions: In most cases, both diagnostic and interventional sialendoscopy are well tolerated under local anaesthesia (LA) or under local anaesthesia with sedation (LAS), with reasonably low patientreported discomfort. Sialendoscopy can be considered a patient-friendly and relatively painless, glandpreserving, minimally invasive procedure suitable for day surgery. Objective: To investigate patient experience and compliance in sialendoscopy under LA/LAS. Methods: This prospective study was conducted at an academic tertiary-care university hospital. During a period of 22 months, 89 patients between ages 16-81 years underwent diagnostic or interventional sialendoscopy under LA (20%) or LAS (80%). After the operation the patients filled in a questionnaire formulated by the authors concerning their procedure-related experiences. Patients' demographic data, ASA status score, pre- and intra-operative blood pressure and heart rate measurements, affected gland, operation time, intervention type, as well as pre-, peri-, and postoperative medication were gathered later from the medical records. Results: The level of discomfort and pain experienced during the operation was assessed as 'mild' or 'none' by 85% and 89% of the patients, respectively. The level of pain experienced after the operation was 'major' in 4% of patients and 'mild' or 'none' in the majority (87%) of patients. The patients' estimations showed no significant difference between the diagnostic and interventional procedures, although it seems that patients who underwent stone removal by transoral incision experienced the operation as a bit more uncomfortable and painful than other patients. Afterwards 97% of patients stated that they would agree to a new LA/LAS sialendoscopy in the future if needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salivary gland malignant tumors (SGMT) are of key interest for head and neck surgeons since surgery with adjuvant radiotherapy is considered the treatment of choice in most of the cases. Some factors, namely rarity, high histologic heterogeneity, and possible occurrence in all the head and neck subsites, contribute to make this topic very controversial; some unclear aspects pertain surgical treatment. When dealing with major salivary gland malignant tumors (MaSGMT), the most debated issues remain the extent of surgery and management of facial nerve. In minor salivary gland malignant tumors (MiSGMT), conversely, surgical planning is influenced by the specific pattern of growth of the different neoplasms as well as the site of origin of the lesion. Finally, two additional issues, the treatment of the neck (therapeutic or elective) and reconstructive strategy after ablative surgery, are of pivotal importance in management of both MaSGMT and MiSGMT. In this review, we discuss the most relevant and controversial issues concerning surgery of SGMT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mucoceles are nonneoplastic cystic lesions of major and minor salivary glands which result from the accumulation of mucus. These lesions are most commonly seen in children. Though usually these lesions can be treated by local surgical excision, in our case, to avoid intraoperative surgical complications like bleeding and edema and to enable better healing, excision was done using a diode laser in the wavelength of 940 nm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sialendoscopy (SE) represents nowadays one of the standard diagnostic and therapeutic procedures in the treatment of major salivary glands lithiasis. We know from experience that it is successful only in small percentage of patients, when used in monotherapy. However, it represents an indispensable part of all of the combined minimally invasive gland-preserving treatment techniques, the success rate of which is around 90%. In this work, we focused on the role of sialendoscopy in the treatment of patients with larger inflamed fixed stones in glandula parotis. We conducted a total of 364 sialendoscopy procedures in 332 patients on our site. We have confirmed lithiasis as a cause of salivary gland obstruction in 246 (74%) patients. In 9 patients there was larger, single, or multiple inflamed fixed lithiasis of glandula parotis. In this subgroup of patients endoscopically assisted sialolithectomy from external mini-incision has become the method of choice. In 9 of the 9 (100%) cases we have achieved complete elimination of stones, and in 8 of the 9 (89%) cases we have achieved complete elimination of complaints. Sialoendoscopically assisted sialolithectomy of glandula parotis from external mini-incision has proved to be highly effective technique to eliminate stones with minimal complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drooling is a common problem in children with progressive dystonia. The authors noted a 58% incidence of drooling in 22/38 children with MEGDEL, a rare neurodegenerative cause of dystonia and report on the clinical course of four patients. Drooling of varying severity and subsequent respiratory problems were treated at the authors’ multidisciplinary saliva-control outpatient clinic. One patient improved on antireflux medication, the second after medication with drooling as side effect was changed. Two other patients underwent salivary gland surgery, one of whom significantly improved; the other died shortly after surgery. The heterogeneity of the cases presented shows the need for stepwise and personalized treatment. The authors recommend the following: (1) optimize the treatment of the underlying neurological condition and replace medication that stimulates saliva secretion; (2) treat constipation, scoliosis, and gastroesophageal reflux if there is still a risk of chronic aspiration of saliva; (3) perform more intense/invasive treatment (botulinum toxin, salivary gland surgery). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives:Salivary gland transfer surgery can reduce xerostomia in oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma patients undergoing primary chemoradiation. A potential drawback of salivary gland transfer is the treatment delay associated with the surgery, and its complications. This study aimed to determine whether the treatment delay affects patient survival and to evaluate patient quality of life after salivary gland transfer.Methods:A retrospective analysis of 138 patients (salivary gland transfer group, n = 58; non-salivary gland transfer group, n = 80) was performed. Patient survival was compared between these groups using multivariate analysis. Salivary gland transfer patients were further evaluated for surgical complications and for quality of life using the head and neck module of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire.Results:Salivary gland transfer and non-salivary gland transfer patients had comparable baseline clinical characteristics. Salivary gland transfer patients experienced a median treatment delay of 16.5 days before chemoradiation (p = 0.035). Multivariate analysis showed that this did not, however, correspond to a survival disadvantage (p = 0.24 and p = 0.97 for disease-free and disease-specific survival, respectively). A very low complication rate was reported for the salivary gland transfer group (1.7 per cent). Questionnaire scores for the item ‘xerostomia’ were very low in salivary gland transfer patients.Conclusion:The treatment delay associated with salivary gland transfer surgery does not negatively affect patient survival. Oropharyngeal squamous cell patients have an excellent quality of life after salivary gland transfer. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Excision has been the treatment of choice in benign non-tumorous obstructive disorders of the major salivary glands, when symptoms persisted in spite of conservative measures. Unfortunately surgical resection has been associated with a relatively high rate of adverse effects. To meet the need for a less invasive treatment modality for benign obstructive non-tumorous disorders (i.e., salivary stones or stenosis), sialendoscopy has been developed and implemented in several countries here among Denmark. This study is a 13-year retrospective registry-based study using The Danish National Patient Register. ICD-10 codes used for non-tumorous obstructive disease of the salivary glands were identified and used to extract patients potentially eligible for sialendoscopy in order to compare sialendoscopic surgery and extirpations of salivary glands. In 2012 sialendoscopy accounted for almost 20 % of all surgical interventions on the major salivary glands due to benign non-tumorous disease. Nationally and regionally the total number of resected major salivary glands due to benign obstructive disease also decreased significantly during the study period. A positive outcome, like the ones described here, will inspire further development and dissemination of gland preserving techniques, to great benefit for the patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salivary gland carcinomas (SGCs) are the most heterogeneous subgroup of head and neck malignant tumors, accounting for more than 20 subtypes. The median age of SGC diagnosis is expected to rise in the following decades, leading to crucial clinical challenges in geriatric oncology. Elderly patients, in comparison with patients aged below 65 years, are generally considered less amenable to receiving state-of-the-art curative treatments for localized disease, such as surgery and radiation/particle therapy. In the advanced setting, chemotherapy regimens are often dampened by the consideration of cardiovascular and renal comorbidities. Nevertheless, the elderly population encompasses a broad spectrum of functionalities. In the last decades, some screening tools (e.g. the G8 questionnaire) have been developed to identify those subjects who should receive a multidimensional geriatric assessment, to answer the question about the feasibility of complex treatments. In the present article, we discuss the most frequent SGC histologies diagnosed in the elderly population and the relative 5-years survival outcomes based on the most recent data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program. Moreover, we review the therapeutic strategies currently available for locoregionally advanced and metastatic disease, taking into account the recent advances in precision oncology. The synergy between the Multidisciplinary Tumor Board and the Geriatrician aims to shape the most appropriate treatment pathway for each elderly patient, focusing on global functionality instead of the sole chronological age., Competing Interests: Author LFL received occasional conference honoraria/Advisory Board fees from Astrazeneca, Bayer, MSD, Merck-Serono, AccMed, Neutron Therapeutics, Inc. Author LDL received conference honoraria/Advisory Board fees from EISAI, MSD, Merck Serono, McCann Healthcare, Eli Lilly, Sanofi, Sunpharma, IPSEN, Bayer, Roche. Author VVP performed consultancy services for Bristol-Meyers Squibb 2019 and for ATOS medical 2020 and is a surgical trainer for thyroid surgery for Ethicon – J&J. None of these relationships interfere with the intellectual content in the current manuscript. The remaining authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2022 Colombo, Van Lierde, Zlate, Jensen, Gatta, Didonè, Licitra, Grégoire, Vander Poorten and Locati.)

Objectives: The diagnosis and therapy of obstructive inflammatory disorders of the salivary glands have changed in the past decades following the introduction of sialoendoscopy. The aims of the present study were to analyze the relevance of sialoendoscopy using our own data and to compare the results to those of other studies. Patients and methods: A retrospective analysis of 70 patients was performed, who were treated for obstructive disorders of the parotid and/or submandibular gland in whom sialoendoscopy was indicated. Two categories of interventions were considered: diagnostic interventional sialoendoscopy and endoscope-assisted interventions. Interventional sialoendoscopy procedures requiring extirpation of the gland were included in the analysis, as were abnormal intraductal processes that were detected during endoscopy. Results: Treatment was successful in 58 of 67 (86.6 %) procedures (sialoendoscopy without surgical intervention n = 59; endoscope-assisted surgical intervention n = 8). Based on the underlying disease, the success rate was 88.6 % ( n = 39) in patients with obstructive sialadenitis without sialolithiasis and 86.6 % ( n = 19) in patients with sialolithiasis. It was not possible to draw definitive conclusions on the underlying disease from the observed pathological intraductal changes. Conclusions: Sialoendoscopy is an effective and safe diagnostic and therapeutic option with low complication rate. However, limiting factors such as the size or the position of potentially removable obstacles must be taken into consideration. Clinical relevance: The rate of gland extirpations can be reduced using sialoendoscopy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surgery for pleomorphic adenoma recurrence presents a significant risk of facial nerve damage that can result in facial weakness effecting patients' ability to communicate, mental health and self-image. We report two case studies that had marked facial weakness after resection of recurrent pleomorphic adenoma and their progress with electrical stimulation. Subjects received electrical stimulation twice daily for 24 weeks during which photographs of expressions, facial measurements and Sunnybrook scores were recorded. Both subjects recovered good facial function demonstrating Sunnybrook scores of 54 and 64 that improved to 88 and 96, respectively. Neither subjects demonstrated adverse effects of treatment. We conclude that electrical stimulation is a safe treatment and may improve facial palsy in patients after resection of recurrent pleomorphic adenoma. Larger studies would be difficult to pursue due to the low incidence of cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) and core needle biopsy are essential diagnostic investigations of lumps in the head and neck, seeding along the needle track has long been a concern, and various factors have been implicated. We therefore searched the Medline database for relevant English language papers published between 1970 and 2014, excluding those on the thyroid and parathyroid, and systematically reviewed them to assess the risk. In the 610 articles reviewed we found only 7 reports of seeding (5 after FNAC and 2 after core needle biopsy). Tumours were found between 3 months and 3 years after the procedure in 4 cases, and in 3, tumour cells were found along the needle track between 0 and 33 days after the procedure. The needles varied in size from 18 – 22 gauge (G) and there were 3 to 4 passes. Four cases occurred after investigation of a mass in the salivary glands, and 3 after assessment of a cervical lymph node. Disease was benign in one and malignant in 6. Seeding along the needle track after FNAC or core needle biopsy of a lump in the head and neck is rarely reported, and an accurate estimate of its incidence is difficult to ascertain. Crude estimates suggest 0.00012% and 0.0011% after FNA and core needle biopsy, respectively. A distinction should be made between seeding that is seen shortly after the procedure and the development of tumour along the needle track. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We examined outcomes in patients treated for radioactive iodine-induced sialadenitis (RAIS) and xerostomia with sialendoscopy. Methods: Data was prospectively collected for all patients undergoing sialendoscopy for RAIS from a single institution. Interventional details and intraoperative findings were recorded. Qualitative data were obtained through patient examination, telephone interviews, and use of a standard quality of life questionnaire, Xerostomia Questionnaire. Quantitative data were obtained from patients who underwent sialometry. Results: Twenty-six patients (24 women and 2 men; median age, 43 years; age range, 19-57 years) underwent interventional sialendoscopy after conservative management of symptoms proved unsuccessful. Sialadenitis was present in 25 patients and xerostomia in 22 patients. Mucus plugging in the duct of the gland was the most common finding (22 patients) followed by stenosis (18 patients), inflammation (eight patients), and erythema (eight patients). Median follow-up time was 23.4±12.1 months. Sixteen patients (64%) reported complete resolution; seven (28%), partial resolution; one (4%), no change in symptoms; and one (4%), regression in RAIS-related symptoms. Patients subjectively noted the following regarding their xerostomia symptoms: seven (31.8%) had complete resolution; 10 (45.5%), partial resolution; four (18.2%), no change; and one (4.5%), regression. Statistical analysis of the available sialometry data revealed a statistically significant difference in saliva production at 6 months following sialendoscopy for unstimulated saliva production ( p=0.028). Conclusion: Sialendoscopy is an effective treatment option for the management of RAIS and xerostomia refractory to conservative therapy and medical management. Patients in our cohort report durable improvement in symptoms after intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oral ranulas are cysts in the floor of the mouth that result from the extravasation of mucous. Historically there has been little consensus on the ideal first-line treatment, but currently, definitive treatment involves excision of the sublingual gland, which can injure the lingual nerve and submandibular duct. Minimally invasive surgical alternatives such as marsupialisation have been proposed, but so far have been associated with a high rate of recurrence. The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the success of a simple, modified suture technique for the treatment of oral ranulas that can be done in the outpatient department. We retrospectively analysed outcomes after the technique was used as a first-line treatment in 15 consecutive patients between 2011 and 2013. Although 2 attempts were needed in 4 patients, complete resolution of the ranula was seen in 13. Other than the need for a second attempt, and recurrent failure in 2 cases, there were no complications. This minimally invasive and quick procedure is a suitable first-line alternative to other less successful or higher risk options. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective The introduction of minimally invasive surgical procedures using sialendoscopy has significantly reduced the rate of major salivary gland removal due to sialolithiasis. The present study assessed the utility of sialendoscopy and identified potential factors influencing successful sialendoscopic salivary stone retrieval. Methods Medical records of sialendoscopic procedures performed at the Department of Otolaryngology of the National Defense Medical College in Japan from November 2007 to January 2014 were retrospectively reviewed. We identified 78 patients diagnosed with sialolithiasis and treated with sialendoscopy (SE). Factors analyzed included stone location, size, symptom duration, surgical methods, and complications. Results The mean age at presentation was 41 years (range, 11–76 years) with a male-to-female gender ratio of 1:1.89. In total, 73 submandibular and 5 parotid endoscopies were performed. Stone size ranged from 2 to 20 mm in diameter. Submandibular stones were removed either by SE alone (9.6%), by transoral stone removal (19.2%), or a combined approach (57.5%). Only 13.7% (10/73) of the cases required submandibular gland removal. Stone size and shape were significant predictors for successful endoscopic stone removal, and stone size and location were significant predictors for submandibular gland removal. Conclusion Sialendoscopy is a reasonable, minimally invasive treatment option for sialolithiasis that avoids salivary gland removal. The present results indicate that sialendoscopy is the first treatment of choice for submandibular gland sialolithiasis. Complete surgical excision is becoming uncommon as a first-line treatment, but it remains indispensable in certain cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the viability, efficacy, and safety of sialoendoscopy for the diagnosis and management of radioiodine I131− related sialoadenitis, we retrospectively reviewed 30 patients referred between September 2007 and July 2013 from the Thyroid Surgery Unit to the Maxillofacial Unit of the Second University of Naples Hospital with persistent sialoadenitis after treatment with I131. After the affected gland had been isolated, the endoscope was introduced into the duct under local anaesthesia with 2% lignocaine and continuous lavage with isotonic saline, and was advanced until it reached the ductal system. We studied 24 women and 6 men, mean (SD) age 52 (??) years. In 25 patients I131 was given for papillary (83%), in 3 for medullary (10%), and in 2 for follicular thyroid carcinoma (7%). Stenosis alone was found in 30 glands (40%), mucous plugs alone in 35 (47%), and mucous plugs, stenosis, and kinks in 10 (13%). Of the 75 glands, dilatation of the ducts was successful in 70, and we completely removed all mucous plugs and kinks. We achieved symptomatic improvement in 23 patients (77%) during a follow-up ranging from 2 weeks to 84 months. Sialoendoscopy is a viable technique for the diagnosis of obstructive salivary disease, and is a safe and effective way to treat sialoadenitis, the most common complication of treatment with I131. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: Salivary gland carcinomas constitute a heterogeneous group of tumors, with over 20 histological subtypes of various prognoses. The mainstay of treatment is surgery, with radiotherapy advocated for unresectable disease or postoperatively in case of poor prognostic factors such as high grade, locally advanced and/or incompletely resected tumors. Concurrent chemotherapy is sometimes advocated in routine practice based on criteria extrapolated from squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck, on radioresistance of salivary gland tumors and on results obtained in the metastatic setting. The aim of this review was to identify situations where chemotherapy is advocated. Material and methods: A search of literature was performed with the following key words: parotid, salivary gland, neoplasm, cancer, malignant tumor, chemoradiation, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and treatment. Case report and studies published before 2000 were not included. Results: Platinum-based regimens were the most frequent. Other regimens were reported and seemed dependent on histology. The level of evidence for the concurrent delivery of chemotherapy with radiation therapy is supported by a low level of evidence. Prescribing chemotherapy mostly relies on poor prognostic factors similar to those used to indicate high dose radiotherapy. Protocols vary with histology. Conclusion: The rationale for adding chemotherapy to radiotherapy remains to be demonstrated prospectively. Although the type of systemic treatments used may be adapted on histology, the strongest rationale remains in favor of cisplatin. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]