Sialography and scanning of the salivary glands

This discussion is a brief review of the current status of sialography and salivary gland scanning in the diagnosis of salivary disorders. Both techniques are in current use; the contrast sialogram is most useful in evaluating recurrent inflammatory disorders, and the radiosialogram finds its greatest value in evaluating patients with suspected neoplasms. These examinations should not be used in lieu of a histologic diagnosis in tumor cases except when a smooth margined radiopositive lesion corresponding with a clinically evident Warthin tumor is noted; in this case a presumptive diagnosis of a benign neoplasm may be established. The utilization of these radiographic techniques depends upon the facilities available, the needs of the particular patient, and the experience and clinical judgment of the salivary gland surgeon.