Iatrogenic Duct Injury

The salivary production of the major salivary glands finds its way into the oral cavity via each gland’s unique ductal system. These ducts occupy an anatomic area that is subject to a wide variety of surgical procedures. Iatrogenic damage to a salivary duct often proves to be an unexpected complication when neighboring surgery is being performed. A not uncommon problem that develops with a sialoadenectomy is the secondary occurrence of a sialocele or a salivary fistula following duct damage. Sublingual duct injury from an adjacent mouth floor procedure can result in the formation of a ranula. Parotid duct obstruction with salivary retention can be a sequel to rhytidectomy or even as a secondary complication following parotid or submandibular sialolithectomy.