Pediatric sialolithiasis

Sialendoscopy in Pediatric Sialolithiasis: Two Cases of Salivary Stones in the Parotid Gland and Review of the Literature

Sialolithiasis is one of the most common diseases of the salivary glands and the most common cause of chronic obstructive sialadenitis. Whereas salivary stones are responsible for most of the cases of obstructive sialadenitis in the adult population, sialolithiasis in children is considered relatively rare. We describe two cases of a 9 and a 4-year-old male respectively, with parotid sialolithiasis treated with sialendoscopy. A systematic review of the current literature was also completed in order to evaluate all described cases of parotid sialolithiasis in the pediatric population. We found 25 articles eligible for a total of 42 cases of pediatric parotid sialolithiasis.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12070-023-03508-8.

Sialendoscopy for pediatric salivary gland disorders: a study of safety and effect

PURPOSE

Sialendoscopy has become the preferred modality for managing pediatric salivary gland disorders (PSGD) including juvenile recurrent parotitis (JRP) and sialolithiasis. The literature remains sparse, but several case series have reported good outcomes and few complications. The aim of this study was to investigate the safety and efficacy of sialendoscopy for PSGD in a Danish setting.

METHODS

From a national sialendoscopy database, we included records of children who had undergone sialendoscopy for PSGD at our clinic over a 6-year period. Clinical and intraoperative data, follow-up and e-mail surveys after 1, 3 and 5 years were retrieved for analysis.

RESULTS

We included 52 procedures on 50 glands (32 parotid, 18 submandibular) in 49 children. Of eligible patients, 90% attended clinical follow-up, 80% answered the survey after 1 year, 80% after 3 years and 60% after 5 years. JRP was diagnosed in 33 cases, obstructive causes in 18 cases. Complications noted were ductal perforation (2%), transient lingual nerve affection (4%) and infection (2%). For JRP patients, overall symptoms had improved for 96% after 3 months, 81% after 1 year and 83% after 3 years. For patients suffering from obstruction, overall symptoms were improved for 93% after 3 months and for 100% after 1 year.

CONCLUSION

Sialendoscopy is a safe procedure for PSGD, and effective for sialolithiasis and symptom reduction in JRP.

The effectiveness and safety of sialendoscopy for sialolithiasis in children: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Sialendoscopy is a new, minimally invasive method that is becoming increasingly more popular than traditional methods for the treatment of sialolithiasis. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, the effectiveness and safety of this method in children with sialolithiasis are investigated.

METHODS

Inclusion criteria were children with sialolithiasis. The information sources were databases MEDLINE and PubMed Central (through PubMed), ScienceDirect, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), citation indexes Scopus and Google Scholar, trial registries, and "gray literature". The last search was performed on September 18, 2022. The risk of bias in included studies was assessed using ROBINS-I tool (Risk Of Bias In Non-randomized Studies of Interventions). The pooled proportion of weighted means was calculated for the quantitative synthesis of available data.

RESULTS

The effectiveness of the method was estimated at 95.5% (95% CI 89.8-99.3%), from 13 studies including 133 cases. The safety was estimated at 97.2% (95% CI 91.8-100%), from 10 studies including 113 cases.

CONCLUSION

The limitations of this study, briefly summarized, are the small number of included studies, the fact that they are mostly retrospective, the difficult application of the guidelines suggested by the PRISMA statement (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) and Cochrane handbook due to the nature of this specific condition and intervention, and the difficulty in assessing reporting bias. The results of the current study indicate that sialendoscopy is an effective and safe method for the treatment of sialolithiasis in children and should be implemented in daily clinical practice.

Topographic Positions of the Wharton's Duct Orifice in Children

PURPOSE

Sialoendoscopic, orthodontic, and surgical interventions within the floor of the mouth require precise knowledge of the topography of the Wharton's duct orifices which is still lacking for the pediatric population. We aimed to establish a normative database for the topography of these orifices in children.

METHODS

The prospective cross-sectional analytic study was performed during January to December 2021. The distances between the mandible gonions and each orifice and the lingual frenulum were defined as primary outcome variables. The secondary outcome variables were the inter-position of the orifices and their location against the base of the tongue and the mandibular alveolar ridge. The segments of the cohort were classified by sex and age groups (4 to 7, 8 to 14, 15 to 17 years old) as the primary predictor variables. The data were evaluated by a 3-way ANOVA for analysis of selected distances with the level of significance at P ≤ .05. The correlation analysis between sex and locations of the orifices was performed using χ² criterion (95% confidence interval) and r ≥ 0.60 was counted as a strong correlation.

RESULTS

The study involved 3,000 healthy children from 4 to 17 years of age. The orifices were symmetrical (89.3%), frenulum-independent (78.0%) openings that were usually located in the middle part of the floor of the mouth. The distance between the orifices varied from 0 mm in the frenulum-attached cases to 4.6 ± 1.8 mm for 4 to 7 years old, 7.6 ± 1.9 mm for 8 to 14 years old, and 9.1 ± 2.6 mm for 15 to 17 years old individuals. The orifices were attached to the frenulum (5.7%), were frenulum-related (16.3%), and frenulum-independent (78.0%). The sagittal asymmetry of the orifices was noted in 10.7%, and in 1.6% the lateral asymmetry was detected. No statistically significant sex-related differences were noted.

CONCLUSION

In the pediatric population, the Wharton's duct orifices are usually symmetrical frenulum-independent openings that are located in the middle part of the floor of the mouth. The distance between the orifices normatively varies according to sex and age. The size of the mandible does not influence the positions of the orifices. The position of the duct orifices must be established prior to submandibular sialoendoscopy, orthodontic interventions, frenotomy, and other oral surgeries.

Sialolithiasis: mineralogical composition, crystalline structure, calculus site, and epidemiological features

The purpose of this paper was to describe the characteristics of salivary calculi and their relationship to epidemiological factors, through a cross-sectional study. We analysed 100 calculi obtained in 2017-2021. Patient data including age, time since onset of symptoms, gland involved, and site of location in the salivary system were studied. The calculi were studied to determine their morphological features using scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive plain radiographic analysis. Most of the calculi had formed in the submandibular gland (SG) (82%). The mean age of patients at onset was 45.83 years; patients presenting parotid gland (PG) stones were somewhat older (p = 0.031). The mean time since the onset of symptoms was longer in PG calculi (p = 0.038). The most common lithiasis site was the main duct (74%), followed by the hilum (22%). Hilar stones were the largest (p < 0.05) and heaviest (p = 0.028). Octacalcium phosphate (OCP) was the most common crystalline phase (Cp) founded, followed by hydroxyapatite (HA) and whitlockite (WH). Specifically, OCP had a higher presence in PG calculi (p = 0.029) and WH was the most common phase in SG calculi (p = 0.017). The most prevalent site of lithiasis was the main duct, and the largest and heaviest calculi were found in the SG. PG stones were associated with a longer history of symptoms and older age. OCP was the most frequent Cp of the calculi studied, and the main Cp in PG stones. WH was the predominant Cp in SG stones. The Cp of the calculi was not influenced by location, patient age, or time of symptoms.

Pediatric Sialendoscopy

Purpose of Review

To describe the pathophysiology, evaluation, and management of sialadenitis as well as the indications for and outcomes of sialendoscopy in the pediatric population.

Recent Findings

Pediatric sialadenitis makes up a small proportion of all salivary gland disease. Acute viral sialadenitis and juvenile recurrent parotitis are the most common forms of the condition. Juvenile recurrent parotitis is thought to be multifactorial in etiology with infectious, behavioral, autoimmune, and structural contributions. Review of the current literature supports a potential benefit from sialendoscopy for children with recurrent acute or chronic sialadenitis. Sialendoscopy can provide both diagnostic and therapeutic benefits with very low associated risks. The most common sialendoscopy findings include intraductal sludge or debris, sialoliths, and ductal strictures.

Summary

In the select pediatric population, sialendoscopy is a safe and effective procedure with associated decreased rates of recurrent acute sialadenitis including juvenile recurrent parotitis.

The changing landscape of pediatric salivary gland stones: A half-century systematic review

OBJECTIVE

To assess the evidence for pediatric sialolithiasis, including its demographic characteristics, diagnosis, and demonstrate the shift in its treatment paradigm.

DESIGN

A systematic review of sources from the Medline and Embase databases was conducted from inception to Dec 4, 2020. Two researchers independently extracted data and assessed quality.

PATIENTS

Patients under the age of 18 with sialolithiasis were included.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Study design, cohort size, age, sex, symptoms, stone characteristics, diagnostic modality and intervention were collected data points.

RESULTS

Forty-one studies with 243 patients were included in the review, of which 40 were case reports or series. Most stones were found in the submandibular gland (n = 210, 85.4%) and were single stones (n = 101, 71.1%). Average stone size was 7.7 mm. The most common diagnostic imaging modality used was ultrasound (n = 73, 47.4%), shifting from plain radiograph which was favoured in earlier years. Similarly, open gland excision was historically preferred, but since 2000, sialoendoscopy comprised 40.5% of all treatment modalities and continues to increase in prevalence, up to 52.1% by 2020. Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy was associated with the highest complication rate of 54.2%.

CONCLUSIONS

The pediatric sialolithiasis diagnostic and therapeutic landscape has changed with ultrasound replacing plain radiographs, and sialoendoscopy replacing submandibular gland excision. Further high-level quality evidence research is required to refine the indications, effectiveness, and safety of sialoendoscopy in pediatric sialolithiasis.

Multiple Faces of Cervical Lesions in Children

Pediatric sialolithiasis is a rare condition causing tumefaction, induration, redness, and pain of the affected gland. When the submandibular gland is involved, the lesion can be mistaken for an adenopathy. As there are few studies to elucidate this condition in children, we present a rare case of a 16-year-old female with suggestive symptoms, in which initial clinical examination and two ultrasound examinations mistook the lesion for an adenopathy. A computed tomography examination was performed and the correct diagnosis was established. The patient was sent for oro-maxilo-facial examination and sialolithotomy was performed. A 10-mm yellow calculus was extracted and postoperative case evolution was favorable under wide spectrum antibiotherapy, oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory therapy and silagog alimentation. Although submandibular adenopathies are much more frequent in the pediatric age group, when faced with a firm, immobile submandibular lesion, the pediatrician should consider the sialolithiasis diagnosis.

Cost analysis of sialendoscopy for the treatment of salivary gland disorders in children

INTRODUCTION

Recent advances in Otolaryngology have changed the diagnosis and therapy for salivary gland disorders. Sialendoscopy-assisted surgery is a minimally invasive, conservative procedure for functional preservation of the affected gland. The goals of this study are to assess the indications, use, and outcomes of pediatric sialendoscopy at a tertiary pediatric institution as well as to analyze the direct cost related to the diagnosis and treatment of patients with sialolithiasis and Juvenile Recurrent Parotitis managed with sialendoscopy.

METHODS

Retrospective cohort study of pediatric patients undergoing diagnostic and/or therapeutic sialendoscopy at a tertiary level children's hospital between 2012 and 2020. Demographic, clinical, surgical variables and direct hospital costs 1 year before and after the sialendoscopy procedure were collected and analyzed.

RESULTS

Twenty-two pediatric patients were included. There was male predominance (59.3%). The most common indication for sialendoscopy was Juvenile Recurrent Parotitis. Average age of onset was 6.5 years for patients with JPR and 14.2 years for patients with sialolithiasis. All patients had an average of 4.5 episodes before the first procedure. 8 patients required repeat sialendoscopy for recurrent symptoms. Mean total hospital costs were significantly higher in patients with JRP 1 year before and after the sialendoscopy ($4308.8 vs. $3330) compared to patients with sialolithiasis. Costs of the sialendoscopy and related expenses including anesthesia and PACU cost were similar in both studied groups ($13,506 vs. $13,022.9). Complete resolution of symptoms was achieved in 14 patients with JRP and all patients with sialolithiasis.

CONCLUSION

Sialendoscopy is a low-risk procedure that aids in the treatment for pediatric salivary gland disorders. The costs related to sialendoscopy are substantial and patients with JRP incur higher hospital preoperative and postoperative costs compared to patients with sialolithiasis.

Ultrasound in Inflammatory and Obstructive Salivary Gland Diseases: Own Experiences and a Review of the Literature

Background: Ultrasound is established as a diagnostic tool in salivary glands for obstructive diseases such as sialolithiasis and tumors. Concerning inflammatory diseases and in non-sialolithiasis-caused obstruction, much fewer data are available. In recent years, technical development has allowed a better assessment of the gland parenchyma, and knowledge about intraductal pathologies has increased considerably, which has provided new insights and a new interpretation of ultrasound findings. Objectives: To provide a comprehensive review of the literature that includes our own experiences and to point out the state of the art in ultrasound in the diagnostics of inflammatory and obstructive salivary gland diseases, taking adequate techniques and recent technical developments into consideration. Data sources and study eligibility criteria: A systematic literature search was performed in Pubmed using various specific key words. Results: According to the literature results, including our own experiences, ultrasound is of value in up to >90% of cases presenting with inflammatory and/or obstructive diseases. Technical developments (e.g., elastography) and the application of modified ultrasound techniques (e.g., transoral ultrasound) have contributed to these results. Today, ultrasound is considered a first-line diagnostic tool in these diseases. However, in some inflammatory diseases, the final diagnosis can be made only after inclusion of the anamnesis, clinical symptoms, serologic blood tests, or histopathologic investigation. Conclusions: Ultrasound can be considered as a first-line diagnostic tool in obstructive and inflammatory salivary gland diseases. In obstructive diseases, it may be sufficient for diagnostics in >90% of cases. In inflammatory diseases, ultrasound is at least an excellent screening method and can be used to establish the diagnosis in cases of an early suspicion. In all diseases ultrasound can contribute to better management and can be used for monitoring during follow-up.

Nuances and Management of Hilar Submandibular Sialoliths With Combined Transoral Robotic Surgery-Assisted Sialolithotomy and Sialendoscopy

OBJECTIVE

To describe the management, technical nuances, and success rates of transoral robotic surgery (TORS)-assisted sialolithotomy.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective database review.

SETTING

Quaternary academic medical center.

METHODS

Between the months of January 2015 and May 2019, patients with hilar submandibular gland stones underwent 2 main variations of TORS-assisted sialolithotomy and sialendoscopy: (1) TORS followed by sialendoscopy for patients with palpable predominantly single stones and (2) either sialendoscopy followed by TORS and sialendoscopy or sialendoscopy followed by TORS only for patients with nonpalpable or multiple stones. Clinical charts were reviewed to collect data, including stone size (imaging review, intraoperative measurement), palpability, duration of operation, TORS variation, operative challenges, symptom improvement, gland preservation rate, and complications.

RESULTS

Thirty-seven patients were identified. Patients were 26 to 80 years old (mean, 57.2 years), and 40.5% were female. Twenty-four patients (64.9%) underwent TORS followed by sialendoscopy; 10 (27.0%), sialendoscopy followed by TORS and sialendoscopy; and 3 (8.1%), sialendoscopy followed by TORS only. The mean stone size was 12.4 mm (range, 4-28 mm). Eleven patients had multiple stones with a mean 4 stones per patient (range, 2-9). Procedural success was 91.9% (34/37) at a mean follow-up of 34.2 weeks (range, 1.4-262.1), and the gland preservation rate was 97.3% (36/37). No patients reported symptoms of lingual nerve injury at 3-month follow-up.

CONCLUSION

TORS combined with sialendoscopy for hilar submandibular gland sialolithiasis allows for improved visualization of critical anatomy, tissue manipulation, and operative flexibility. In our experience, the operative success rate is high, and duration of surgery compares favorably with conventional combined hilar approaches.

Unilateral Sialendoscopy for Juvenile Recurrent Parotitis: What Happens to the Other Side?

OBJECTIVE/HYPOTHESIS

Current literature has confirmed the benefits of sialendoscopy for the treatment of juvenile recurrent parotitis (JRP). However, this procedure is often performed unilaterally, although the disease can affect both sides. This article investigated the clinical course of the contralateral parotid (CL) gland in children requiring unilateral sialendoscopy with the goal of clarifying the necessity of primary bilateral sialendoscopy.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective cohort study in a tertiary center.

METHODS

Over an eight-year period, 77 children with JRP underwent unilateral sialendoscopy. We observed the clinical course of the CL parotid over a minimum follow-up period of 24 months. New episodes of sialadenitis were recorded on both sides along with the need for a second sialendoscopy. These data were correlated with the preoperative symptoms of the contralateral side as well as ultrasound (U/S) findings at baseline assessment.

RESULTS

In total, six children required sialendoscopy on the CL side (7.8%), 62 children remained asymptomatic or with scarce swellings (80.5%), and nine children improved (11.7%). The preoperative U/S findings on the CL side positively correlated with the number of postoperative swellings. The proportion of children needing CL sialendoscopy was higher (21.4%) among children needing a second sialendoscopy on the operated side.

CONCLUSIONS

In the long term, the vast majority of children needing unilateral sialendoscopy do not require similar treatment of the CL parotid gland. However, a history of bilateral swellings along with U/S findings of parenchymal disorganization on the CL side significantly increases the risk of needing further sialendoscopy at a later time.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4 Laryngoscope, 131:1404-1409, 2021.

Pediatric sialendoscopy: An 11-year study from a single tertiary care center

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the suitability, benefits, and limitations of sialendoscopy for pediatric patients.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of all pediatric sialendoscopy patients (aged 16 years or younger) in our tertiary care institution between September 2007 and October 2018. We characterized patient data, procedure-related factors, complications, and outcomes.

RESULTS

In total, 55 sialendoscopies were performed on 42 patients. Among these, 36 were diagnostic endoscopies and 19 were interventional. Five endoscopies were performed under local anesthesia. We identified 16 sialolithiasis patients, where removal of a sialolith was possible in 11 (69%) cases; one case required a second endoscopy. We removed two sialoliths under local anesthesia. Among recurrent juvenile parotitis (RJP) patients, 18/20 (90%) were symptom-free after a single sialendoscopy, and all after a second endoscopy. The median follow-up time was 70 months. We achieved a 95% success rate in sialendoscopies, with a failure-to-treat rate of 15%. The complication rate for the study cohort was 2%, with prolonged parotid swelling the only complication encountered.

CONCLUSIONS

Sialendoscopy represented a safe and effective method to treat pediatric patients. Local anesthesia was successful in selected cases, even for sialolith removal. Sialendoscopy had a soothing effect on RJP and the majority of sialoliths were suitable for endoscopic removal.

Juvenile Recurrent Parotitis: The Role of Sialendoscopy

Juvenile recurrent parotitis (JRP) is a recurrent parotid inflammation of nonobstructive, nonsuppurative nature. It manifests in childhood and usually resolves after puberty but may also persist into adulthood. JRP is characterized by recurrent episodes of unilateral or/and bilateral parotid swelling with pain, reduction of salivary secretion, swallowing difficulty, fever, and malaise. The cause of this condition remains obscure. Throughout the last two decades, many therapeutic methods have been used in order to reduce the frequency and severity of JRP. During the acute episodes, conservative approaches (antibiotics, analgesics, sialogogues, massage of the parotid gland, and mouth rinses) are used. Parotidectomy has been suggested in rare selective occasions. Recently, a promising concept of sialendoscopy, which is a minimal invasive endoscopic technique, has been applied. This review outlines the literature on JRP focusing on methods and challenges in diagnosing JRP along with the differential diagnosis of JRP and the function of the parotid during JRP. In addition, we describe the treatment options for JRP, pointing out the importance of sialendoscopy as a diagnostic and treatment procedure that offers improvement in patients' daily life.

Evidence of a microbial etiology for sialoliths

OBJECTIVES

Sialolithiasis is the primary etiology for parotid and submandibular swelling, potentially resulting in discomfort, bacterial infections, and hospitalization. The etiology of sialolith formation is unknown. Currently, the proposed etiologies range from inflammation, coalescence of organic molecules, sialomicrolith formation, pH changes, and biofilm formation. In this study, we performed a descriptive analysis of images obtained through electron microscopy of sialoliths. Based on our findings and descriptive analysis, we hypothesize that sialolith formation is likely multifactorial and begins with biofilm formation. Biofilm formation then triggers a host immune response, and it is the interaction of biofilm with host immune cells and calcium nanoparticles that forms the nidus and creates a favorable environment for calcium precipitation.

METHODS

Sialoliths were extracted from patients and imaged under light and scanning electron microscopy. Specimens for light microscopy were prepared using a diamond saw. Specimens for electron microscopy were freeze-fractured, thus providing an undisturbed view of the core of the sialolith.

RESULTS

We were able to identify clear evidence of biofilm caves at the core of each sialolith. These biofilm caves were complex with the presence of bacteria and dehydrated extrapolysaccharide matrix, host cells (immune cells, platelets and erythrocytes), and calcium nanoparticles.

CONCLUSION

The etiology of sialolith formation is likely multifactorial. We propose that biofilm formation within a single salivary gland or duct leads to local ductal injury, which results in the influx of host immune cells that interact with the biofilm and calcium nanoparticles, creating a scaffold upon which further calcium deposition can occur.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

NA Laryngoscope, 130:69-74, 2020.

Sialendoscopy for sialolithiasis in children: 4-8 years follow up

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.

Comparison between Sialendoscopy and Conventional Methods in the Treatment of Sialolithiasis

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.

Sialendoscopy: Experience with the First 60 Glands in Turkey and a Literature Review

Objectives

We performed a retrospective analysis to contribute to the increasing number of reports on sialendoscopy in the literature and give basic concepts for beginners at the same time.

Methods

Between 2004 and 2009, 83 patients with symptoms of ductal obstruction of the major salivary glands were admitted to our clinic. Diagnostic and/or interventional sialendoscopy was applied to 60 glands (33 submandibular and 27 parotid) of 54 patients. A holmium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser or a pneumatic lithotripter was used for intraductal stone fragmentation.

Results

Sialendoscopy revealed no disorder in 2 cases, and in 38 glands (28 submandibular and 10 parotid) sialolithiasis was the underlying disease. Fifteen glands (5 submandibular and 10 parotid) were found to have other main disorders such as stenosis, synechia, or kink formation. Other findings included sialodochitis in 6 glands (2 submandibular and 4 parotid), a polyp in 1 parotid gland, mucus plugs in 21 glands (6 submandibular and 15 parotid), ductal ectasia in 4 glands (2 submandibular and 2 parotid), and ductal collapse in 1 parotid gland. The overall interventional success rate was 83% of all cases, and no complications occurred.

Conclusions

The success rate of the interventional sialendoscopy performed in the current study shows consistency with the results given in the related medical literature. In the age of sialendoscopy, the adjunctive intraoral surgeries can be argued to be safer, easier, and more successful than before. Sialendoscopy may be considered to be the best practice not only in sialolithiasis, but also in other treatments of obstructive ductal disorders.

Benign Pediatric Salivary Gland Lesions

Salivary gland lesions are rare in pediatric patients. In addition, the types of salivary gland tumors are different in their distribution in specific sites in the major and minor salivary glands in children compared with adults. This article reviews benign neoplastic and nonneoplastic salivary gland disorders in pediatric patients to help clinicians to develop an orderly differential diagnosis that will lead to expedient treatment of pediatric patients with salivary gland lesions.

Pediatric sialendoscopy in Asians: A preliminary report

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

The sialendoscopic approach in treating pediatric salivary gland disorders has been reported with great success through the years. Whereas this success has been widely reported in Caucasian populations, relatively little has been reported regarding the use of this procedure in pediatric patients in Asian countries. The purpose of this study is to report our preliminary experience in pediatric sialendoscopy.

METHODS

The data from 20 patients (<18years old), who underwent sialendoscopy for obstructive sialoadenitis in the Department of Otorhinolaryngology of Mackay Memorial Hospital between October 2013 and November 2015, were reviewed.

RESULTS

Twelve of our 20 patients (60%) were diagnosed with sialolithiasis and 8 of our 20 patients (40%) presented with non-lithiasis obstructive sialoadenitis. Ductal stenosis was found in 13 patients, and 18 patients had debris/mucous plug formation. The overall success rate was 95% (19/20) in our series, and 85% (17/20) of the patients had achieved a complete remission after a single sialendoscopy procedure.

CONCLUSIONS

Sialendoscopy is an ideal treatment in the management of obstructive sialoadenitis in Asian pediatric patients. If necessary, Holmium:YAG laser lithotripsy and sialostent placement could be applied, and both procedures are well tolerated in pediatric patients.

Comparison of the diagnostic performance of panoramic and occlusal radiographs in detecting submandibular sialoliths

Purpose

The aim of this study was to assess and compare the diagnostic performance of panoramic and occlusal radiographs in detecting submandibular sialoliths.

Materials and Methods

A total of 40 patients (20 cases and 20 controls) were included in this retrospective study. Cases were defined as subjects with a submandibular sialolith confirmed by computed tomography (CT), whereas controls did not have any submandibular calcifications. Three observers with different expertise levels assessed panoramic and occlusal radiographs of all subjects for the presence of sialoliths. Intraobserver and interobserver agreement were assessed using the kappa test. Sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive and negative predictive values, and the diagnostic odds ratio of panoramic and occlusal radiographs in screening for submandibular sialoliths were calculated for each observer.

Results

The sensitivity and specificity values for occlusal and panoramic radiographs all ranged from 80% to 100%. The lowest values of sensitivity and specificity observed among the observers were 82.6% and 80%, respectively (P=0.001). Intraobserver and interobserver agreement were higher for occlusal radiographs than for panoramic radiographs, although panoramic radiographs demonstrated a higher overall accuracy.

Conclusion

Both panoramic and occlusal radiographic techniques displayed satisfactory diagnostic performance and should be considered before using a CT scan to detect submandibular sialoliths.

Treatment of chronic recurrent juvenile parotitis using sialendoscopy

CONCLUSION

The combination of sialendoscopy and an intraductal application of corticosteroids can be recommended for children with chronic recurrent juvenile parotitis (CRJP) as there is growing evidence for a positive effect in the absence of side effects.

OBJECTIVE

CRJP is a disorder with painful, episodic swelling of the parotid gland in children. The majority of cases have a self-limiting character within 5-10 years, but the disease may also continue into adulthood. CRJP can occur on one or both sides and up to now the etiology has been unclear. The aim of this study was to analyze the therapeutic effect of a sialendoscopic application of corticosteroids on the clinical course of patients with CRJP.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed the clinical course of 9 children with 10 parotid glands affected by CRJP, who all underwent sialendoscopy and intraductal application of corticosteroids. In all cases the procedure was conducted under general anesthesia. The average follow-up period was 15 months.

RESULTS

There were no side effects associated with the sialendoscopy. All duct systems showed signs of chronic inflammation with an atrophic or thickened epithelium. At the follow-up visit, CRJP symptoms had completely resolved in eight children. One child still showed slight parotid swellings without the need for antibiotics. None of the parents reported that symptoms had continued at an equal level or worsened after sialendoscopy.

Sonography: the leading diagnostic tool for diseases of the salivary glands

Ultrasound examination is the imaging procedure with the best predictive diagnostic capability for the salivary glands. Due to the salivary glands' relatively superficial anatomical location, clear boundary from surrounding tissue and comparatively typical echogenicity, therefore sonography is ideal for diagnosis. In addition, the technical advances in recent years, including higher resolution, color Doppler sonography, contrast-enhanced ultrasound, elastography, and tissue harmonic have lead to an improvement in diagnostic accuracy of sonography further resulting in an expansion of the range of indications. Sonography allows detection of obstructive salivary gland diseases such as stenosis or sialolithiasis, as well as sialadenosis such as Sjögren syndrome. Ultrasound examination alone is sufficient to diagnose benign tumors. However, in the case of malignant tumors, computer tomography or MRI may be also required, especially to determine the question of infiltration of the skull base.

Salivary endoscopy in a pediatric patient with HLA-B27 seropositivity and recurrent submandibular sialadenitis

Patients with human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-B27 seropositivity have a genetic predisposition to form spondyloarthropathies, especially ankylosing spondylitis. Other related inflammatory or autoimmune disorders include reactive arthritis, uveitis, psoriatic arthritis, and Crohn's disease. Although juvenile recurrent parotitis is not uncommon, recurrent submandibular sialadenitis is rare in pediatric patients. Sialadenitis is typically caused by salivary stones, infection, or duct stricture. To our knowledge, there has not been report of HLA-B27 positivity and recurrent sialadenitis described previously. We describe a patient with HLA-B27 seropositivity and multiple episodes of left submandibular sialadenitis who underwent diagnostic and therapeutic sialendoscopy. Previous treatment included antibiotics, sialogogues, warm compresses, and hydration before he underwent definitive sialendoscopy treatment at a tertiary care medical center. Salivary endoscopy showed salivary stasis and sludging within the left submandibular gland duct, with no salivary stones. Topical steroid was applied to the duct. At one year following his surgery, he has not had any recurrent episodes of sialadenitis. HLA-B27 seropositivity is associated with many inflammatory disorders; we report a case in which the patient had coexisting recurrent sialadenitis. In the pediatric population, sialadenitis is traditionally managed with antibiotics and supportive care, however our patient underwent salivary endoscopy. Sialendoscopy is an emerging modality that potentially avoids radiation exposure from CT or sialography and should be considered as another preferred treatment option. More investigation is required to prove a possible correlation between existing HLA-B27 and the propensity to develop this clinical problem.

Advances in imaging of obstructed salivary glands can improve diagnostic outcomes

INTRODUCTION

Obstruction of the major salivary glands is a relatively common condition defined as the blockage of the salivary outflow in the glandular ductal system. It can however mimic more aggressive pathology.

METHODS

The most common cause of salivary obstruction is sialolithiasis, followed by ductal strictures. Salivary obstruction is clinically characterized by a food-related painful swelling of the affected gland, known as 'mealtime syndrome'.

RESULTS

When obstruction is clinically suspected, the role of imaging consists of confirming the obstruction, identifying its cause, evaluating the position and extent of the obstruction and evaluating for associated complications. However, if imaging shows up signs of a tumour or other pathology which can mimic an obstructed gland clinically instead, the radiologist can alert the clinician accordingly to change the course and plan of treatment. Several imaging techniques are available for investigating the obstructed salivary glands.

CONCLUSIONS

This review looks at the causes of obstruction and the use, diagnostic performance and practicality of the various imaging modalities. Importantly, an imaging approach algorithm for the evaluation of the obstructed salivary gland is also proposed.

Giant Salivary Gland Calculi (GSGC): Report Of Two Cases

Sialolithiasis is the most common disease of salivary glands. It is a condition characterized by the obstruction of a salivary gland or its excretory duct due to the formation of calcareous concretions, resulting in salivary ectasia and even determining the subsequent dilatation of the salivary gland.

The sialolith usually measure from 1 mm to less than 10 mm. They rarely measure more than 15 mm. Infrequently giant salivary gland calculi (GSGC) >15 mm have been reported in the literature. The submandibular gland and its duct appear to be the sites most susceptible to this disease.

The aims of this article were: 1) report the cases of two patients suffering of sialolithiasis caused by giant salivary gland calculi occurring in the Wharton’s duct; and 2) present the results of the literature’s research on giant sialolith.

The diagnostic approach of the two cases consisted of trans-occlusal endoral radiography, orthopantomography, CTscan. The patient’s glands were treated with conservative trans-oral surgical technique stone removal in both cases, performed under local anaesthesia.

The glands recovered normal function quickly after removal of the stones.

For the patients the morbidity associated with salivary gland calculi removal follow-up showed asymptomatic and normally functioning glands.

Pediatric sialendoscopy under local anesthesia: limitations and potentials

OBJECTIVE

Sialendoscopy in children is a recently described procedure. The small amount of existed literature presents the procedure under general anesthesia. We report our experience on pediatric sialendoscopy under local anesthesia at an outpatient setting.

METHODS

In a period of 1.5 years 9 children with age >8 years suffering from recurrent parotid swellings were assessed with sialendoscopy. In 8 out of 9 cases the parents accepted a procedure under local anesthesia. In 7 cases the procedure was completed uneventfully however in one case was discontinued and repeated under general anesthesia. The endoscope used was a 1.1mm Marchal type. Prior to endoscopy xylocaine solution 4% was applied on the papilla area for 15min. Intraductal injection of xylocaine 2% (5ml) was performed prior the insertion of the endoscope. During the procedure parents evaluated pain by means of a 6-point smiley scale. Social life and school activity were also evaluated by means of an 11-point scale pre- and 1 year post-sialendoscopy.

RESULTS

Seven out of eight children (8 sialendoscopies) tolerated and completed the sialendoscopy assessment. The mean duration of the procedure was 39.2min. No major complications were reported at the early post-endoscopy period. Four children presented no further swellings, two experienced one recurrence and one needed a repeat sialendoscopy (3 recurrent episodes). Sialendoscopy findings showed fibrinous debris in 4 children, mucous plugs in 2, evidence of sialodochitis with purulent debris in one child and stenosis in 3 children. The diagnosis in our cases was Juvenile Recurrent Parotitis in 6 children and chronic microbial parotitis in one case. Social life and school activity were improved in 6 children 1-year post-sialendoscopy according to parent's ratings.

CONCLUSIONS

Sialendoscopy under local anesthesia can be an alternative option in children of age >8 years and satisfactory cooperative skills, avoiding unnecessary general anesthesias and hospital stay.

Sialographic findings in Wharton duct evagination

Ductal evagination is a rare condition affecting the Wharton duct. The aim of this study was to establish the incidence, imaging features and clinical significance of ductal evagination in patients undergoing submandibular gland sialography. The sialographic findings and reports of 322 patients undergoing submandibular gland sialography during the period 1998-2007 were retrospectively reviewed. Ductal evagination was identified on sialograms as a unique diverticulum, filled with contrast medium, of the Wharton duct, with a narrow neck and a blind end. A ductal evagination was found in 5/322 patients with swelling and pain in the submandibular gland. It was always located in the middle tract of the Wharton duct. Other findings were: in 5/5 patients, an enlargement of the primary and secondary ducts due to sialodochitis; in 3/5 patients, salivary stones; in 1/5 patients, a sinuous distal tract of the Wharton duct; in 2/5 patients, a stenosis of the proximal tract of the Wharton duct. In our series, the incidence of wharton duct evagination was 1.6% incidence. It may represent a form of duct wall weakness although its cause is uncertain. It is, however, a condition that needs to be highlighted on sialograms for eventual inflammatory consequences or in guiding sialoendoscopy to avoid eventual ductal perforation.

Diagnosis and management of pediatric salivary gland infections

The incidence of salivary gland infections in the pediatric population is low but not infrequently seen in pediatric oral and maxillofacial surgery practices and hospital environs. With an ever increasing armamentarium of diagnostic tools and medical and surgical therapies, these patients can be managed successfully with minimum morbidity and decreased incidence of recurrences.