OBJECTIVETo discuss the indications, risks and benefits of endoscope-assisted transoral approach to excise the submandibular gland.

METHODSA retrospective review of a series of 12 patients treated by endoscope-assisted transoral submandibular gland excision was carried out. Of the 12 patients, 8 were chronic sialoadenitis (2 cases with sialolith), 3 were pleomorphic adenoma, and 1 was cyst of submandibular gland. Preoperatively, all patients were diagnosed as benign diseases by Ultrasonography, CT or MRI. Pathologic diagnosis of 8 cases were identified by fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) or fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB).

RESULTSTemporary lingual sensory paresis and temporary limitation of tongue movement were found in two patients. However, these signs soon resolved spontaneously within 1 - 3 months. There were no other complications. Postoperatively, mean satisfaction score with cosmetic results was 10. All patients were satisfied with the cosmetic results. No recurrences were found in patients with pleomorphic adenoma with a follow-up period ranged from 12 months to 48 months (median follow-up period: 36 months).

CONCLUSIONSEndoscope-assisted transoral excision of the submandibular gland is a feasible and safe approach for the benign diseases of the submandibular gland. The major advantages of this approach are no external scar and no injury to the marginal mandibular nerve.