The parotid gland
Written by:The parotid gland is an organ that produces saliva bilateral and releases directly into the mouth through both cheeks. It is situated in front of the ears, on mandibular branches and angles.
Diseases of the parotid gland
This gland inflammations can develop (Mumps), almost always related to the production of stones or calculi, which obstruct drainage of saliva. Dehydration also influences the development of these glandular swellings. Other causes of mumps are viral infections (mumps occurring with fever) or autoimmune diseases such as lupus, Sjogren's syndrome, among others.
tumors can also appear inside the tissue of the parotid gland itself. These are usually benign, but with continued growth. They may appear some malignant, accompanied by metastasis of other tumors in lymph nodes within the gland.
As indicated by the professionals in Maxillofacial Surgery , it is important to correctly diagnose problems that may occur in the parotid gland. By clinical examination of the patient, the radiological tests (CT or MRI) and a needle-fine needle aspiration (FNA) can guide the diagnosis and treatment of most problems.
Treatments for parotid gland
Mumps or inflammation of the gland has a treatment that does not require surgery. The use of antibiotics and anti-inflammatory, moisturizing and massaging the gland are recommended guidelines for solving the possible complications. Sometimes small surgical procedures are necessary to remove stones or drain pipes abscesses.
Tumors of the parotid gland usually require surgical treatment. The gland is crossed by the facial nerve, which divides into superficial lobe and deep. The facial nerve supplies the muscles responsible for facial movements. Normally surgery removes the entire superficial lobe and sometimes deep, to prevent recurrence of the tumor, preserving the facial nerve and its function.A cosmetic skin incisions and control measures in the operation of the facial nerve complex and allow safe parotidectomies. The results are excellent and very aesthetic for patients. Anyway, it is always very important to a correct diagnosis and discuss the details of the operation with the surgeon, guaranteeing success almost completely.
