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Updated: Jun 20, 2026
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Retroductal Submandibular Gland Instillation and Localized Fractionated Irradiation in a Rat Model of Salivary Hypofunction
Published on: April 24, 2016
[Radiotherapy : an option for refractory salivary fistulas]
H Christiansen1, H A Wolff, J Knauth
1Klinik und Poliklinik für Strahlentherapie und Radioonkologie, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Strasse 40, 37075, Göttingen, Deutschland. hchrist@gwdg.de
HNO
|September 4, 2009
Summary
Fractionated radiotherapy effectively treated a refractory salivary fistula after parotid surgery and Botulinum toxin therapy. This radiation approach offers a viable option for persistent cases unresponsive to other treatments.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Radiation Oncology
- Head and Neck Surgery
Background:
- Salivary fistulas can be a challenging complication following parotid surgery.
- Refractory cases may not respond to conventional treatments like Botulinum toxin injections.
- Previous surgeries can complicate the management of persistent salivary fistulas.
Observation:
- A 45-year-old patient with a refractory salivary fistula post-lateral parotidectomy was treated.
- The patient had undergone multiple prior surgeries and Botulinum toxin treatments without success.
- Fractionated radiotherapy was administered to the remaining parotid gland and fistula opening.
Findings:
- The fractionated radiotherapy involved a total dose of 30 Gy.
- Complete inhibition of salivary fistula secretion was achieved over time.
- The treatment demonstrated efficacy in resolving the persistent fistula.
Implications:
- Radiotherapy is a potential treatment modality for refractory salivary fistulas.
- While less common due to Botulinum toxin, radiation should be considered for intractable cases.
- This case highlights the utility of radiotherapy in managing complex post-parotidectomy complications.
