Hyposalivation after undergoing stapedectomy.
BACKGROUND
Treatment for otosclerosis involves patients' undergoing stapedectomy. Inadvertent damage to the chorda tympani nerve's (CTN's) secretory fibers during stapedectomy can result in inadequate secretory stimulation of the submandibular salivary glands (SMSGs) and sublingual salivary glands (SLSGs). Because most saliva originates from these glands, hyposalivation and subjective xerostomia manifest during resting periods when parotid gland secretions are minimal. Stimulation with food increases parotid gland salivation enough to overcome the subjective sense of dryness.


METHODS
The author examined a 52-year-old man who had undergone bilateral stapedectomy because of hearing loss; his rheumatologist referred him to the Salivary Gland Center (New York City) because of a complaint of dry mouth. After the author examined the patient, he concluded that the patient had decreased SMSG and SLSG secretion and recommended that the patient use sugarless chewing gum or sour candy frequently to stimulate his parotid glands and use oral lubricants and sip water as needed.


CONCLUSIONS
Stimulation of parotid gland secretion is independent of SMSG and SLSG activation. Therefore, the dental practitioner must become aware of the innervation of the salivary glands and each gland's secretory production during periods of oral stimulation and of rest.
Division of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Columbia University College of Dental Medicine, New York City, NY 10032, USA. LM7@columbia.edu
Louis
L
Mandel
D002814:Chorda Tympani Nerve / Q000503:physiopathology; D034381:Hearing Loss / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D013201:Stapes Surgery / Q000009:adverse effects*; D013361:Sublingual Gland / Q000378:metabolism; D013363:Submandibular Gland / Q000378:metabolism; D014987:Xerostomia / Q000209:etiology*