Submandibular Gland Removal
Submandibular Gland Removal
There are two submandibular glands, one on either side of the neck, below the jawbone. These glands are salivary glands, and sometimes a problem can develop in one of the glands or the duct, where the saliva travels from the gland to the mouth.
Why You Might Need Submandibular Glands Removed
There are a number of reasons why you may require the removal of a submandibular gland – these include:
- Repeated infection
- An unexplained enlargement (potentially cancerous)
- Too much saliva produced as a result of neuromuscular disorder
- Saliva is obstructed from the gland – commonly caused by a stone or restriction of the duct
- A patient can experience a number of problems that can be treated by removing one or both submandibular glands.
Some of the benefits include:
- Removing a potentially cancerous part of the body
- Reduced risk of repeated infection.
- Normal amounts of saliva are produced
What Does The Removal Of Submandibular Glands Involve?
The surgery is performed under general anaesthetic - a surgeon will make an incision on the neck below the jaw to remove the gland. A drain may be inserted for 24 hours to reduce the risk of severe bruising. Antibiotics will be administered during the procedure to help avoid infection.
At the end of the operation, which usually takes between 45 minutes and an hour to perform, the surgeon will close the cut with stitches which may be dissolvable.
Recovery
You will be required to stay in the hospital for at least one or two nights after the operation and stay off work for a week, during which time the wound must be kept dry.
Consultants that perform this procedure
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