Evaluation of endoscopy in the diagnosis and treatment of obstructive salivary gland diseases

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic and therapeutic value of endoscopy for chronic obstructive sialadenitis (COS). Methods: Twenty-five patients (16 females and 9 males with age ranging from 17 to 77 years) with 34 sides who suffered from recurrent swelling in salivary gland regions were treated at the department of salivary diseases, college of stomatology, Wuhan University. Pre-operative screening with standard mandibular occlusal film and sialography were performed. Results: Conventional radiograph showed 3 cases with submandibular gland radiopaque stones; 22 with COS. X-ray revealed extended dilatation of main ducts of parotid and submandibular glands. Examination by endoscopy demonstrated proliferative fibrous materals, stenosis or dilatation, vasodilatation and erythema on wall of the duct. Mucoid and pyogenic plugs, irregular lumen shape, radiopaque and radiolucent stone were also detected in the ducts. After the procedure, significant alleviation of swelling, discomfort and pain was noted in all patients. No significant complications were noted in the follow-up period. Conclusions: Endoscopy was a safe, effective and minimally invasive technique in the diagnosis and treatment of COS.