Parotid Duct Ligation

• The procedure can reduce drooling in children with neurological conditions.
• Controlling drooling can prevent skin breakdown and reduce the risk of your child inhaling saliva and aspiration (choking).
• The procedure is minimally invasive and takes only a few minutes.

Risks of parotid duct ligation include:

• Cheek swelling
• Bruising
• Infection

Consulting a board-certified otolaryngologist (ear, nose and throat specialist) and multi-specialty teams that specialize in children’s care minimizes risks. 

Parotid duct ligation takes place in an operating room, with your child asleep under general anesthesia.

• The surgeon opens your child’s mouth and makes a small opening in the inside of the cheek.
• The surgeon finds the ducts leading from the parotid salivary gland.
• The surgeon ties the ends of the ducts closed with stitches (sutures).

• You and your child can typically go home the same day, but may stay overnight.
• You will get instructions on limiting your child’s activities for a day or two as they heal.