Long-term results of combined approach in parotid sialolithiasis

Combined sialendoscopic and transcutaneous approach in parotid sialolithiasis is a surgical option for large and impacted stones. The aim of this study is to assess the long-term results regarding postoperative stenosis, recurrent swellings and gland function. Prospective study in a tertiary referral center of patients with parotid sialolithiasis requiring combined approach. A total of 12 patients have been treated within a period of 3 years. Intraductal stents were placed in 9 of 12 cases. Scintigraphic evaluation of salivary glands and follow-up sialendoscopy performed 1 year postoperatively. In total, fourteen stones (two stones in two cases) were successfully removed along with two coexisted inflammatory polyps. Postoperative endoscopic evaluation revealed mild stenosis in 7 out of 12 cases without clinical significance as no recurrent swellings were reported. Scintigraphy showed normal gland function in 11 cases and mild hypofunction in 1 case with long-standing history of sialolithiasis. All patients were free of symptoms within the follow-up period of time (median follow-up 15.5 months). Combined approach is a safe, gland preserving and efficacious procedure in long term. The stenosis in the area of ductal surgical opening when present does not seem to be of clinical value.