Treatment

Submandibular Gland Removal

Key Points About Submandibular Gland Removal

Submandibular gland removal is surgery to remove one or both of the large salivary gland(s) from under your child’s jaw.
It may be recommended to treat drooling (sialorrhea), salivary gland stones (sialolithiasis), repeated infections or tumors in the gland.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is submandibular gland removal?

Submandibular gland removal is surgery to take out one or both of the salivary glands in the jaw. If your child has repeated infections due to salivary stones (sialolithiasis) blocking the flow of saliva from the gland, removing the gland may offer relief. Submandibular gland removal can also help your child’s excessive drooling (sialorrhea). The gland may also be removed to address other symptoms or to treat a tumor growing in the gland.

What are the benefits of submandibular gland removal?

What are the risks of submandibular gland removal?

What happens before a submandibular gland removal?

The doctor will discuss your child’s medical history and examine the inside of your child’s mouth. After the physical examination, the doctor may recommend imaging such as, CT, MRI or ultrasound that can help the doctors see any problems in the submandibular gland.

When the surgery is scheduled, you will get instructions on when to stop giving your child food or drink the night before the surgery.

What happens during a submandibular gland removal?

What happens after a submandibular gland removal?

The surgeon uses stitches (sutures) or a special glue to close the opening.
In most cases, you and your child can return home the same day or after staying in the hospital overnight.
You will get instructions on how to care for the surgical opening.
Your child’s jaw may be swollen for several days. Ice and doctor-prescribed pain medications will help.
The doctor may recommend a soft diet and oral rinses while the surgical opening heals, which takes 1 to 2 weeks.

Departments That Perform Submandibular Gland Removal

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Ear, Nose and Throat (Otolaryngology)

Our ENT specialists offer expert care in ear, nose and throat conditions. Learn about our advanced pediatric ENT (otolaryngology) treatments.

Additional Specialties Involved in Submandibular Gland Removal

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