Medical Treatment: Lithotripsy
Lithotripsy is a medical treatment that uses sound waves to break up salivary duct stones, similar to the way it breaks up kidney stones. By fracturing the stones, the smaller pieces can be easily eliminated through saliva flow, eliminating the need for surgery. This non-invasive procedure is performed under sedation, resembling a dental procedure in terms of comfort and ease for the patient.
Medical Treatment: Surgery
In cases where a large stone or a difficult infection is present, surgery may be recommended as a treatment option. During this procedure, the stone will be removed, and in some cases, the entire gland may need to be removed as well. While surgery offers a comprehensive and long-term solution, it is not without its risks. The facial area contains crucial nerves that are responsible for facial expressions and other functions in the head and neck region. However, even after the removal of a single gland, saliva production should still remain sufficient.