Surgical Experience with Submandibular Glands
I’m a healthy 27-year-old female, but I’ve been battling severe allergies and sinus infections for the last two years, leaving me feeling completely bewildered. Today, I underwent a submandibular sialendoscopy, complemented by a minor sinus procedure to address scarring. While my nasal symptoms appear to have improved, there’s more to the situation than that. My primary concern revolves around the surgeon's assertion that there were no stones detected. I was taken aback to see that the incision was made lower than the submandibular fold instead of at the sublingual papillae. It raises questions about the effectiveness of the procedure—where did the camera even go?! If the stone is lodged in my 1.5mm duct, I can’t help but feel that this approach is questionable at best. Having dealt with pain, swelling, and trouble swallowing for nearly a decade, I had done extensive research prior to this. I frequently experience small bits of calcification breaking free and passing through the papillae as well. I nearly insisted on another CT scan, which ultimately revealed a 6mm stone within the duct, confirmed by the radiologist. While I'd like to include images of my condition, it seems sharing those isn’t permitted. Right now, I’m just exhausted from feeling dismissed, as if I’m imagining my problems when I’m certain the stone remains. To complicate matters further, my surgeon exited before I fully regained consciousness and had a discussion with my partner regarding my situation, leaving me in a state of confusion. I’m unsure if a local anesthetic procedure to correct this oversight is feasible or if I should seek a new specialist, even if it means incurring additional expenses. I’m at a loss, as this was intended to be a turning point for my health. It feels as though the original procedure missed the mark entirely, and I fear the stone could lead to more infections down the line.
Answers (1)
12/13/2025, 7:50:39 AM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear about your experience and the ongoing challenges you’ve faced with your allergies and sinus infections. It's understandable that you feel exhausted and frustrated, especially after undergoing a procedure that you hoped would provide relief. Let's address your concerns directly and explore some possible next steps for your situation.
Main Points:
- Concerns about the effectiveness of your sialendoscopy procedure and the absence of stone removal.
- Need for clarity about your current health status and potential next steps.
- Options for further evaluation and treatment that prioritize your wellbeing.
Understanding the Situation:
Sialendoscopy is designed to treat issues within the salivary glands, such as stones or strictures. If no stones were found during your procedure but you have a history of recurrent symptoms, it’s crucial to understand why the stone was not located or addressed. Your history of calcifications passing through the submandibular duct adds complexity to your situation.
The incision location can vary based on the surgeon's approach and specific conditions treated. If you feel your concerns and symptoms were not adequately addressed, it’s completely valid to seek further clarification or a second opinion.
Next Steps:
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Document Your Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of your symptoms, including when you experience pain, swelling, and swallowing difficulties. This documentation can help any future healthcare provider understand your history better.
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Request a Detailed Follow-Up: Reach out to your surgeon or their office. Ask for a thorough explanation of the findings during your procedure and the reason for not detecting or addressing the stone. A clear understanding of the procedure's outcomes might help ease your concerns.
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Consider a Second Opinion: If your questions remain unanswered or you still feel dismissed, seeking a second opinion from another specialist who can review your previous imaging and discuss your symptoms may be beneficial. Look for an ENT or oral surgeon specializing in salivary gland disorders.
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Evaluate Next Steps for Treatment: Discuss the possibility of a follow-up imaging study, such as a CT scan or ultrasound, with the new specialist to visualize the duct and confirm whether the stone is still present. If the stone is confirmed, discuss the best options for removal.
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Manage Symptoms: In the meantime, ensure you're managing any pain or discomfort with over-the-counter pain relief as needed and staying hydrated, which can help with salivary flow.
Final Thoughts:
It sounds like you have been very proactive about your health, which is commendable. Pursuing clarity about your condition and advocating for yourself is important. Remember, it's okay to seek further help if you feel your needs are not being met. Take care and please feel free to reach out if you have more questions or need further support.
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