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Sialendoscopy is most commonly employed for the treatment of salivary gland stones (sialolithiasis). Stones that can be endoscopically localized can be removed via this method. Stone removal can generally be achieved in three primary ways.
Firstly, if feasible, stones can be extracted intact using instruments such as baskets or forceps. The size of the stone is a critical factor here. Stones measuring less than 3 mm in the submandibular gland or less than 7 mm in the parotid gland can typically be removed in a single piece.
Secondly, larger stones that cannot be extracted whole may be fragmented using lithotripsy or laser techniques. The resulting smaller fragments are then removed from the duct using a basket or forceps.
Finally, in cases where stones are exceptionally large and resistant to fragmentation, a combined surgical approach is utilized. This involves endoscopically locating the stone, creating a small incision within the mouth to remove it, and subsequently repairing the incision and placing a stent to ensure patency.
How are salivary gland stones treated endoscopically?
Firstly, if feasible, stones can be extracted intact using instruments such as baskets or forceps. The size of the stone is a critical factor here. Stones measuring less than 3 mm in the submandibular gland or less than 7 mm in the parotid gland can typically be removed in a single piece.
Secondly, larger stones that cannot be extracted whole may be fragmented using lithotripsy or laser techniques. The resulting smaller fragments are then removed from the duct using a basket or forceps.
Finally, in cases where stones are exceptionally large and resistant to fragmentation, a combined surgical approach is utilized. This involves endoscopically locating the stone, creating a small incision within the mouth to remove it, and subsequently repairing the incision and placing a stent to ensure patency.