The salivary glands are three pairs of glands located in the mouth. The glands produce saliva, which helps us digest food, keep our mouths moist, and help protect the health of our teeth. While these glands are small, masses and growths can form inside and around them through abnormal cells. These masses can make swallowing difficult, cause facial weakness, and create a lump or swelling in the area.
Treatment Methods for Salivary Gland Masses
The primary form of treatment for salivary gland masses is surgery, which includes partial or complete removal of the gland. By removing the gland completely, patients will have long-term relief from the side effects of the masses and no longer have recurring growths.
The surgery is performed through incisions inside the mouth. During the procedure, the surgeon will remove either a portion of or the entire gland as well as some of the surrounding tissue. The incisions will then be closed. After the procedure, the surrounding tissue or gland may be biopsied to ensure that there is no cancerous tissue.