Removing a Submandibular Gland
This webpage will give you information about removing a
submandibular gland. If you have any questions, you should ask your
GP or other relevant health professional.
What are the submandibular glands?
The submandibular glands are salivary glands.
There are two, one on either side of your neck, under the jawbone
(see figure 1).
Figure 1: The duct of the
submandibular gland opens into the floor of the tongue
A submandibular gland may need to be removed
for a variety of reasons such as repeated infection, obstruction or
unexplained enlargement.
What are the benefits of surgery?
Surgery takes away symptoms of swelling, pain
and an unpleasant taste in the mouth, and can help find out the
cause of an enlarged gland.
Are there any alternatives to surgery?
Some obstructions can be treated without having
to remove the gland.
What does the operation involve?
The operation is performed under a general
anaesthetic.
Your surgeon will make a cut in the skin of
your neck just under your jaw. They will remove the gland and
insert a drain (small tube).
What complications can happen?
General complications of any operation
- Pain
- Bleeding
- Unsightly scarring
Specific complications of this operation
- Damage to nerves
- Infection
How soon will I recover?
The drain is usually removed the day after the
operation.
You should be able to go home after one to two
days.
The stitches are usually removed seven to ten
days after the operation. Most people are then able to return to
work.
Summary
A problem with a submandibular gland can cause
swelling, pain and an unpleasant taste in the mouth. Removing the
gland will take away the symptoms and can help find out the cause
of an enlarged gland.
Acknowledgements
Author: Mr Sat Parmar FDSRCS FRCS
Illustrations: LifeART image copyright 2006
Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. All rights reserved.
This document is intended for information
purposes only and should not replace advice that your relevant
health professional would give you.
Copyright © 2008 EIDO Healthcare
Limited
The operation and treatment information on this website is
produced by EIDO Healthcare Ltd and is licensed by Ramsay Health
Care UK.
The intellectual property rights to the information belong
exclusively to EIDO Healthcare Limited.
You may not copy, print out, download or otherwise reproduce any
of the information other than for your personal, non-commercial
use.
The information should not replace advice that your relevant
health professional would give you.
Hospitals offering this treatment