High-resolution computed tomography of the major salivary glands: current status

At our institution, computed tomography is the procedure of choice for evaluation of suspected mass lesions of the major salivary glands. It affords exact anatomic localization of a mass and allows simultaneous examination of the contralateral gland and other regional structures of importance in salivary gland disease. Intravenous contrast medium enhancement is always utilized; however, concomitant sialography has never been necessary. Regional anatomy of the salivary glands with respect to computed tomography imaging and clinical material demonstrating its efficacy are presented. The neoplastic and nonneoplastic diseases affecting the salivary glands are reviewed.