Objective: To investigate the value of endoscopy in the diagnosis and treatment of sialolithiasis.
Methods: Diagnostic and interventional sialoendoscopic procedures were performed in 52 patients with sialolithiasis (43 submandibular glands and 9 parotid glands).
Results: Of the 34 sialoliths in the anterior and/or posterior part of the Wharton's duct, 24 were removed with basket retrieval; 2 removed with open surgery and basket retrieval, and 8 removed with open surgery under the guidance of endoscopy. Eight sialoliths in the hilum of the Wharton's duct were treated with open surgery. Of the 9 stone cases in the Stensen's duct, 3 was removed with basket retrieval, 3 was removed after opening-up of the ostium, 1 was treated with basket capturing and open surgery. The obstructive symptoms were improved in these cases during 1-24 months' follow-up.
Conclusions: Sialoendoscopy is a minimal invasive and efficacious technique for the diagnosis and treatment of sialolithiasis.