Removal of the submandibular gland using a combined retroauricular and transoral approach.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the feasibility and outcome of a combined retroauricular and transoral approach for removing the submandibular gland.


METHODS
Thirteen patients underwent removal of benign submandibular gland lesions (6 sialoadenitis with sialolithiasis, 4 chronic sialoadenitis, and 3 pleomorphic adenomas) using a combined retroauricular and intraoral approach.


RESULTS
All 13 submandibular sialoadenectomies were successful and all of the wounds healed uneventfully. A temporary deficit of the lingual nerve developed in 2 cases and mild limited movement of the tongue developed in 3 cases. No patient suffered from weakness of the marginal mandibular branch of the facial nerve. The follow-up averaged 14.1 months (range, 6-24 months); no tumors recurred. The incision scars were invisible.


CONCLUSIONS
Submandibular gland resection using a combined retroauricular and transoral approach is a feasible method for benign submandibular gland lesions that provides an acceptable cosmetic outcome.
Chen
Wei-liang
WL
Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China. drchen@vip.163.com
Yang
Zhao-hui
ZH
Wang
Yong-jie
YJ
Huang
Zhi-quan
ZQ
Wang
You-yuan
YY
D000328:Adult; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D019647:Oral Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods*; D013363:Submandibular Gland / Q000601:surgery*; D013364:Submandibular Gland Diseases / Q000601:surgery*; D016896:Treatment Outcome