Sialolithiasis: literature review and case report

Sialolithiasis is a common disorder of the salivary ducts and glands. If a patient has pain and swelling in these regions, and (especially) a history of occurrence near mealtimes, this diagnosis should be considered. For accessible stones, conservative therapy of milking the duct, together with palliative therapy, should be attempted. If these therapies are unsuccessful, excision can be attempted if the sialolith is far enough anterior in the duct. Excision of the gland may be necessary if the sialolith is too far posterior in the duct or gland. This treatment may be indicated if recurrence is frequent. A fibrosed gland may not need to be excised. Lithotripsy shows promise as a nonsurgical treatment, but is relegated to larger medical centers and is not readily available. Occasionally, sialoliths exfoliate, as in the case presented.