Santa Barbara ENT

Sialendoscopy

Who is this treatment for?

Recurrent pain and swelling of the cheek or under the chin may be due to a problem with the salivary gland. The salivary gland duct can have a stone or narrowing which causes blockage and leads to:

  • Pain
  • Swelling
  • Infection
  • Avoidance of certain foods
  • Potential for abscess of the gland
Sialendoscopy
The Storz semi-rigid 1.2 mm and 1.6 mm endoscopes are used to pass instruments to dilate stenotic ducts and to remove stones.

What is a Sialendoscopy?

A new, minimally invasive procedure called sialendoscopy is now available for patients who suffer from salivary gland blockage. Prior to this new technique, patients would require surgery with neck incisions, drains and long recovery periods. Sialendoscopy uses a small endoscopy to visualize the inside of the salivary duct. Stones and mucous plugs are removed and narrow areas are dilated open. No incision. No drain. Patients have minimal pain and quick recovery.

Where can I get the treatment?

Dr. Golgert received her training in 2007 from some of the European experts who refined this technique. She was the first to perform sialendoscopy in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and the first to perform it in Santa Barbara.

Sialendoscopy showing removal of a stone from the parotid duct.

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