The submandibular glands are a pair of large salivary glands below the jaw area. The role of the salivary glands is to produce saliva, which through the excretory ducts that connect the glands to the oral cavity, reaches the mouth. The composition of saliva coming from the submandibular gland has a thicker form, leading in some cases to the formation of stones. These stones may cause a blockage in the excretory duct, at the same time manifesting symptoms such as pain and swelling. For the treatment of these symptoms, submandibular gland removal is indicated.

Submandibular gland tumors: Categories & Symptoms

In rarer cases, the development of a small tumor in the area of ​​the submandibular gland can be detected. These tumors are mostly benign, however, they may present malignancy and turn into cancer. Benign tumors are perceived as a soft-textured mass, which shows movement and does not present painful symptoms.

However, over time they may increase in size and become malignant. At the same time, symptoms such as pain and paralysis of the nerves in the facial area indicate in several cases the presence of malignancy. Consequently, the appearance of a tumor in the area of ​​the submandibular gland should be accompanied by a thorough examination.

Submandibular gland removal: When is it indicated?

When it comes to this particular gland, surgery to remove the submandibular gland is usually recommended in case of recurrent infections of the gland (Sialadenitis) that have not resolved with conservative treatment. Sometimes, infections are caused by repeated occurrence of salivary gland stones (Sialolithiasis). At the same time, surgery is recommended to treat both benign and malignant tumors of the submandibular gland.

The presence of a stone or tumor causes obstruction to the flow of saliva, a condition that is usually accompanied by pain and swelling. Obstruction of the submandibular gland also carries a risk of infection and abscess formation. Surgery to remove the submandibular gland removes the entire gland or part of it. If cancer cells are found, removal of the gland may be part or all of the treatment. The other salivary glands will continue to produce saliva to prevent mouth dryness.

Submandibular gland removal: Surgical process

Submandibular gland removal is performed by ENT Surgeon in Athens Dr. Olga Papadopoulou through an incision of approximately 3 cm in a neck crease on either side of the mandible line. The gland must be disconnected from the surrounding muscles, blood vessels and nerves. Consequently, the large vessels are carefully ligated by the diathermy method to avoid any injury to the surrounding nerves. The use during the operation of Intraoperative Monitoring alongside the use of a Neurostimulator to protect the main nerves minimizes intraoperative as well as postoperative complications.

At the end of the operation, the incision is sutured intradermally using a plastic surgery sutures. In this way, an excellent aesthetic result is achieved, minimizing the possibility of a postoperative scar. The surgery to remove the submandibular gland takes up to 1 hour. The patient, depending on the outcome of the surgery and the state of his health, can be discharged the same or the next day.

Submandibular gland surgery: Post-operative course

In most cases, a small drain will be placed in the incision area, which is usually removed after 24 hours, while the stitches are removed after 5 to 7 days. There is minimal postoperative pain, which may subside even without the administration of painkillers. The patient is fed normally, however it is recommended to avoid doing exercises or lifting weights for up to 2 weeks after the surgery.

However, this particular operation is accompanied by risks, as the nerves responsible for the movements of the face, lips and tongue pass through the submandibular gland. Consequently, there is an increased risk of injury, which in advanced cases may lead to nerve damage, numbness and paralysis of the tongue or lower part of the mouth. For this reason, the procedure is important to be carried out with careful handling, to avoid unpleasant side effects.