A sialography is an x-ray test using contrast (x-ray dye) to look in detail at the salivary ducts and glands, most commonly the chronic inflammation of the parotid gland and submandibular. These glands test help to keep your mouth moist by draining saliva into your mouth through small tubes called ducts. The contrast used in Conray 80, Amipaque 440, Lipiodol UF, Myodil, and Duroliopaque appear to be the media most suited for sialography, provided glandular overfilling is avoided. A prolonged clinical study is advised for a further selection of these agents.
A sialogram (contrast media, Omnipaque 300 mg I/ml, GE Healthcare, Kodak DR 7500 Direct View) is a test your doctor can use to diagnose a blocked salivary gland or duct in your mouth and clinical findings include swelling of the salivary gland and muddy discharge from the salivary duct [rx]. Your salivary glands are located on each side of your face. Sialendoscopy was conducted under local intraductal anesthesia (articaine 4%) using a semi-rigid flexible endoscope with working and flushing channels 1.1 mm and 1.6 mm in diameter (Karl Storz GmbH & Co KG, Tuttlingen, Germany, a compact modular semi-rigid interventional endoscope with three channels).
The salivary glands are located on each side of the face. They release saliva into the mouth.
How the Test is Performed
The test is performed in a hospital radiology department or a radiology facility. The test is done by an x-ray technician. A radiologist interprets the results. You may be given a medicine to make you calm before the procedure.
You will be asked to lie on your back on the x-ray table. An x-ray is taken before the contrast material is injected to check for blockages that might prevent the contrast material from entering the ducts.
A catheter (a small flexible tube) is inserted through your mouth and into the duct of the salivary gland. A special dye (contrast medium) is then injected into the duct. This allows the duct to show up on the x-ray. X-rays will be taken from several positions. The sialogram may be performed along with a CT scan.
You may be given lemon juice to help you produce saliva. The x-rays are then repeated to examine the drainage of the saliva into the mouth.
How to Prepare for the Test
Tell the health care provider if you are:
- Pregnant
- Allergic to x-ray contrast material or any iodine substance
- Allergic to any drugs
You must sign a consent form. You will need to rinse your mouth with a germ-killing (antiseptic) solution before the procedure.
How the Test will Feel
You may feel some discomfort or pressure when the contrast material is injected into the ducts. The contrast material may taste unpleasant.
Why the Test is Performed
A sialogram may be done when your provider thinks you might have a disorder of the salivary ducts or glands.
What Abnormal Results Mean
Abnormal results may suggest:
- Narrowing of the salivary ducts
- Salivary gland infection or inflammation
- Salivary duct stones
- Salivary duct tumor
Risks
There is low radiation exposure. X-rays are monitored and regulated to provide the minimum amount of radiation exposure needed to produce the image. Most experts feel that the risk is low compared with the potential benefits. Pregnant women should not undergo this test. Alternatives include tests like an MRI scan that do not involve x-rays.
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