Sublingual Gland

Publication date: Available online 4 July 2018

Source: Operative Techniques in Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery

Author(s): Patrick J Bradley

Abstract

It is infrequent for surgery to be necessary for the sublingual salivary gland. As such the anatomy of the floor of mouth is not well taught or understood to medical graduates and head and neck surgeons. Three diseases or conditions require surgical management: the ranula, neoplasm and sialolithiasis. In the benign conditions, the lingual nerve and submandibular duct must be identified and preserved to avoid patient morbidity. Malignant salivary gland neoplasms are rare, and hence an inaccurate diagnosis frequently delayed commencement of correct treatment. Most cases present at an advanced stage of disease. Surgical excision with a "safe margin" is required, and thus removal of the lingual nerve and submandibular gland are sequelae of the treatment rather than a complication.

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