Sialoadenectomy in Dogs

Sialoadenectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of one or more of the salivary glands. It is most commonly used to treat inflammation of the salivary glands and sialoceles, which are cysts on the salivary gland. These conditions are both considered rare in dogs. Sialoadenectomy is considered an extremely effective procedure and can be curative for both conditions.

The glands which are removed will depend on the underlying condition and its cause, if one is identified.

1. The dog will first be anesthetized.
2. The surgeon may take x-rays prior to surgery in order to visualize the mass(es).
3. The surgeon will make an initial incision into the affected side, usually on the underside of the neck.
4. Once the mandibular gland is visualized, the mandibular gland will be separated from its capsule.
5. The surgeon will ligate, or cut off the blood supply to, the mandibular capsule.
6. The mandibular gland will be mostly removed after being separated from the salivary duct.
7. Following excision of the mandibular gland, the sublingual gland can be visualized and mostly removed following the same steps as the mandibular gland.
8. Once the glands have been dissected from their capsules, they can be fully removed.
9. The space where the glands were will then be closed.
10. The cystic sac and skin will then be resected before the surgeon inserts a drainage tube.
11. The skin will be sutured shut around the tube using non-absorbable sutures.
12. Dogs will typically be released after surgery is complete.

The efficacy of the procedure will vary based on the condition it is being used to treat, although the prognosis is generally good for both conditions. Sialoadenectomy typically cures both sialadenitis and sialoceles in dogs. Most dogs are able to return to normal following surgery with few complications. Recurrence is rare, and is more likely to occur if only one salivary gland was removed.

Following surgery, the dog will need to wear a bandage, which will need to be changed frequently to prevent infection. Antibiotics, analgesics, and/or corticosteroids will be administered for up to four days following surgery. Owners should ensure their dog gets plenty of rest and does not engage in activity during the recovery period. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled within a week to two weeks following surgery to monitor healing and remove the drain and sutures.

The cost of sialoadenectomy will vary depending on whether or not a marsupialization is also required. The cost of sialoadenectomy typically ranges from $250 to $1,000.

Complications and postoperative infection are rare. Only one salivary gland may be removed if one salivary gland is affected. In these cases, recurrence is more likely. If the condition recurs or does not improve within one week, the salivary gland on the other side will need to be removed as well. Contrary to popular belief, removing the salivary glands will not cause dry mouth. 

For cases of sublingual sialoceles, also known as ranulas, an additional surgical procedure known as marsupialization will need to be performed. This procedure simply facilitates drainage.

It is important that owners prevent their dogs from engaging in activities that could result in trauma to the head, neck, eyes, or mouth. Owners should also ensure their dogs do not ingest foreign bodies as these can cause sialadenitis and sialoceles.