Name of the Procedure:

Biopsy of Salivary Gland; Incisional
Common name(s): Incisional Salivary Gland Biopsy

Summary

An incisional biopsy of the salivary gland is a medical procedure in which a small piece of tissue is surgically removed from a salivary gland. This tissue is then examined under a microscope to diagnose or rule out various diseases.

Purpose

The procedure is typically performed to identify or diagnose conditions affecting the salivary glands, such as infections, tumors, or autoimmune disorders. The goals are to provide a clear diagnosis and to guide subsequent treatment planning.

Indications

• Persistent swelling or a lump in the salivary gland
• Unexplained pain or discomfort in the salivary gland area
• Symptoms indicative of an autoimmune disease, such as Sjogren’s syndrome
• Suspicious findings from imaging studies like MRI or CT scans

Preparation

• Fasting may be required for a few hours before the procedure.
• Patients may need to adjust their medication, particularly blood thinners, as per the doctor’s recommendations.
• Pre-procedure diagnostic tests, such as blood work or imaging studies, may be conducted.

Procedure Description

1. Pre-procedure Preparation: Patient is prepped and positioned comfortably.
2. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is often administered to numb the area.
3. Incision: A small incision is made over the salivary gland.
4. Tissue Sample Removal: A portion of the gland tissue is carefully excised.
5. Closure: The incision site is closed with sutures.
6. Post-procedure Care: The area is cleaned and bandaged.

Tools used in the procedure include a scalpel, forceps, surgical scissors, and sutures. Local anesthesia is typically used, though in some cases, sedation may be administered.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour.

Setting

This procedure is generally performed in an outpatient clinic or a hospital surgical center.

Personnel

• Surgeon or an ENT specialist
• Nursing staff
• Anesthesiologist (if sedation is used)

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the biopsy site
• Bleeding or hematoma
• Nerve injury leading to temporary or permanent numbness
• Scarring or swelling

Benefits

• Accurate diagnosis of salivary gland conditions
• Facilitates appropriate treatment planning
• Minimally invasive compared to more extensive surgical procedures

Recovery

• Mild pain and swelling at the site are common and can be managed with pain relievers.
• Patients may need to avoid certain foods and strenuous activities for a few days.
• Follow-up appointments may be necessary to monitor healing and review biopsy results.
• Full recovery typically occurs within one to two weeks.

Alternatives

• Fine-needle aspiration biopsy: Less invasive but may provide less definitive results.
• Imaging studies: Non-invasive but may not provide a definitive diagnosis.
• Watchful waiting: Appropriate if symptoms are mild and not progressively worsening.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients may feel pressure or mild discomfort despite the anesthesia. After the procedure, pain and swelling are managed with prescribed medications. Most patients return to normal activities within a few days, following specific post-procedure care instructions provided by the healthcare team.