What is sialography in radiology?

Sialography (also termed radiosialography) is the radiographic examination of the salivary glands. It usually involves the injection of a small amount of contrast medium into the salivary duct of a single gland, followed by routine X-ray projections.

For which pathology sialogram is done?

In most cases, ultrasound (with sialography, if required) is an appropriate imaging modality for the investigation of ductal pathology. In cases of sialolithiasis, ultrasound of the parotid glands is a useful, readily available, noninvasive, and inexpensive option.

How is sialography done?

A sialogram is performed to diagnose blockage of the salivary flow due to stones or strictures. This examination is done by introducing a very thin tube into the opening of the duct and injecting a small amount of liquid. This probe procedure is done without any anesthesia since it is not too painful.

Why does a patient undergo a sialography procedure?

Why is a sialogram performed? Your doctor can use a sialogram to evaluate blockages in a salivary duct or gland. Your doctor may recommend a sialogram if you have one or more of the following symptoms: a constant abnormal or foul taste in your mouth.

What viral infection causes swollen salivary glands?

Viral infections such as mumps, flu, and others can cause swelling of the salivary glands. Swelling happens in parotid glands on both sides of the face, giving the appearance of “chipmunk cheeks.” Salivary gland swelling is commonly associated with mumps, happening in about 30% to 40% of mumps infections.

Is a sialogram painful?

A sialogram is painless although you may have some discomfort in your salivary gland when the contrast is injected into it.

What is Sialendoscopy surgery?

Sialendoscopy is an innovative technique that uses extremely narrow endoscopes to diagnose and treat many conditions of the salivary glands. The human body has three pairs of major salivary glands: parotid, submandibular and sublingual.

What causes Sialolith?

These factors include: Dehydration, which causes saliva to be more concentrated. Medications like blood pressure drugs and antihistamines that cause dry mouth. Poor diet or not eating enough food, which decreases saliva production.

Is sialography is still an essential procedure these days?

Hence, sialography remains an indispensable choice for detailed assessment of the salivary glands when compared to the above mentioned imaging modalities as it is simple to perform, quick and almost a pain free diagnostic procedure. MR sialography is a recent advancement with non-invasive 3D imaging technique.

How do you unblock a salivary gland?

The best way to clear blocked salivary glands is to ramp up saliva production. The best way to do this is to drink lots and lots of water. If that doesn’t’ help, try sucking on sugar-free sour candies such as lemon drops. Gentle heat on the area can help ease the inflammation and help the stone to clear out.

Can a salivary gland burst?

Fever can occur. Generalized viral infections cause fever, headache, muscle aches and joint pain in the entire body. If the virus settles in the parotid glands, both sides of the face enlarge in front of the ears. A mucocele, a common cyst on the inside of the lower lip, can burst and drain yellow mucous.

How long does a Sialogram take?

How long will it take? The test usually takes about 30 minutes. Does it hurt? A sialogram is painless although you may have some discomfort in your salivary gland when the contrast is injected into it.