[Imaging of salivary lithiasis].

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Otolaryngology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Salivary gland lithiasis is a common condition, second only to mumps.
• Evolving minimally invasive treatments necessitate accurate diagnostic imaging.
• Understanding imaging roles is crucial for effective salivary stone management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and analyze the diagnostic utility of various imaging techniques for salivary lithiasis.
• To assess the role of imaging in identifying complications associated with salivary stones.
• To correlate imaging findings with the advancements in salivary lithiasis treatment.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on imaging modalities for salivary gland lithiasis.
• Comparative analysis of Ultrasound (US), Computed Tomography (CT), and Magnetic Resonance (MR) Sialography.
• Evaluation of conventional sialography versus MR Sialography for ductal visualization.

Main Results:

• Ultrasound (US) is a non-invasive, accessible first-line imaging tool for salivary lithiasis.
• Non-contrast helical CT with multiplanar reconstructions is the gold standard for lithiasis diagnosis, especially for small or poorly calcified stones.
• MR Sialography is emerging as a non-invasive alternative to conventional sialography for ductal imaging, despite lower spatial resolution.

Conclusions:

• Imaging plays a critical role in diagnosing salivary gland lithiasis and its complications.
• CT offers superior accuracy for lithiasis detection and characterization.
• Non-invasive techniques like US and MR Sialography are increasingly important in managing salivary stones.