The salivary glands are crucial structures located within and around the oral cavity, responsible for the production of saliva. Various diseases and abnormalities can affect the salivary glands, and surgical intervention may be required in certain cases. Here are common salivary gland disorders and surgical treatment methods:

Salivary Gland Disorders:

1. Salivary Gland Tumors: Both benign (non-cancerous) and malignant (cancerous) tumors can develop in the salivary glands. These tumors often present with symptoms such as rapid growth, pain, swelling, or difficulty swallowing.
2. Sialadenitis: This is the inflammation of the salivary glands, usually due to infections or salivary stones. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and redness.
3. Salivary Stones (Sialolithiasis): Stones can form within the salivary glands, obstructing saliva flow and causing inflammation. This condition is characterized by pain, swelling, and reduced saliva production.
4. Sjögren’s Syndrome: An autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation of the salivary and tear glands. Symptoms include dry mouth, dry eyes, difficulty swallowing, and swelling of the salivary glands.

Salivary Gland Surgery:

1. Tumor Removal: Surgical excision of benign or malignant tumors in the salivary glands is a common treatment option. The goal is to completely remove the tumor and prevent the spread of cancer.
2. Sialadenectomy: This is the partial or total removal of a salivary gland. It can be performed to treat conditions such as salivary stones or recurrent sialadenitis.
3. Salivary Stone Removal: Surgical intervention may be necessary to remove salivary stones. This procedure typically involves making an incision to access the salivary gland and manually removing the stone or breaking it up using laser techniques.
4. Reconstructive Surgery: Following tumor removal or partial gland excision, reconstructive procedures may be needed to restore the functionality of the salivary glands.

Surgical interventions related to salivary gland disorders are usually performed by a specialized otolaryngologist (ENT surgeon) or a head and neck surgeon. Depending on the patient’s condition and the severity of the disease, these procedures can be done using minimally invasive techniques or more extensive open surgical methods.