Sialography

Sialography (from Greek σιαλον, sialon, saliva and for γραφή, graphics, " the Scripture " ) is the representation of transitions of the major salivary glands ( parotid, submandibular gland and sublingual gland ). For this purpose, with a fine, blunt cannula or catheter the respective mouth of the under investigation gland probed ( the excretory duct of the parotid gland is located in the buccal mucosa near the maxillary first molar and the remaining ducts are located on the tongue floor behind the lower front teeth ). Then a water-soluble contrast agent is carefully, under low pressure injected into the salivary duct and there are radiographs of the gland and the excretory ducts made ​​.

The sialography can be used for example in the diagnosis of salivary calculi ( Sialolithiasis ), especially for localization. However, salivary stones are often visible even without Sialografie on radiographs. Furthermore, the sialography can help in the diagnosis of salivary gland diseases.

In addition to the sialography with conventional radiography, there are also sialography with computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging.

Exit opening of the parotid gland: gland papilla

Exit opening of the submandibular gland: sublingual caruncle