Fluoroscopic-Guided Sialoplasty
What is this procedure?
Fluoroscopic-guided sialoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to widen (dilate) narrow areas of the salivary ducts. A fine catheter or balloon is inserted into the duct opening inside the mouth, and live X-ray imaging (fluoroscopy) is used to guide gentle stretching of the narrowed segment.
Why is it done?
Your doctor may recommend sialoplasty for:
- Salivary duct strictures or narrowing
- Recurrent gland swelling caused by restricted saliva drainage
Sialoplasty can improve symptoms and prevent repeated episodes of blockage.
What happens during the procedure?
- You will lie comfortably in the fluoroscopy room.
- The doctor will locate the salivary duct opening inside your mouth.
- A small catheter is gently inserted into the duct.
- Contrast dye is injected to outline the duct and identify the narrowed area.
- Under live X-ray guidance, a tiny catheter with a balloon is advanced into the stricture.
- The duct is gently dilated for a short period.
- The procedure usually takes 20–30 minutes.
After the procedure
- You can go home soon after the procedure.
- Mild discomfort or swelling may occur for a day or two.
- You may be advised to massage the gland, stay well hydrated, or suck sour sweets to encourage saliva flow.
- You can eat and drink normally unless advised otherwise.
Benefits
- Minimally invasive
- Opens up narrowed ducts to improve saliva flow
- Reduces recurrent swelling and discomfort
- Can avoid surgical gland removal
Possible risks
These are uncommon:
- Temporary discomfort or swelling
- Mild bleeding from the duct opening
- Contrast extravasation (contrast leaking outside the duct), which usually settles without treatment
- Infection (rare)
- Recurrence of duct narrowing over time (may require repeat treatment)
- Rarely, irritation or injury to the duct
Follow-up
Your doctor will review the results and advise whether further treatment or repeat dilation is needed.
