Parotid Gland Intraoral Dilation of Strictures

Abrupt Change of Luminal Size

Short-segment focal strictures can be readily identified by the abrupt change of the luminal size from the nonstenosed segment, especially the ductal dilation proximal to the stricture ( Figs. 27.1 , 27.2 ).

Size of Stensen's Duct

For diffuse strictures where the luminal size change is not obvious, the stenosis could be recognized by the actual luminal size and the tissue quality of ductal wall.

In a histologic study, Zenk et al. noted the diameter of Stensen's ducts ranging between 0.5 mm and 1.4 mm, with a maximum of 2.3 mm. On the other hand, sialographic measurements in other studies reported greater mean values of 1.7–2.2 mm. The difference is attributed to the ductal distension that accompanies contrast injection during the sialography. As ductal irrigation is part of the sialendoscopy, the sialographic data would be a better reference for the endoscopic estimation. Stensen's duct could be regarded as stenosed, when there is difficulty to admit the passage of a 1.1 mm sialendoscope.

Tissue Quality of the Ductal Wall

The normal ductal wall appears pink, with visible mucosal capillaries ( Fig. 27.3 ). The carina between the peripheral ductal openings are sharp ( Fig. 27.4 ). It is distensible on irrigation. In contrast, parotid ductal strictures, because of the underlying fibrosis, appear white with paucity or absence of mucosal vessels (see Fig. 27.1 ). Its distensibility by irrigation is limited. If the peripheral branches are involved, the carina between the openings would look blunt and widened ( Fig. 27.5 ). In other cases, the ductal wall may appear inflamed. If uncertain, the sialendoscopic appearance can be compared against that of the contralateral asymptomatic side. Therefore, it is advisable to obtain preoperative consent for possible bilateral sialendoscopies, even if the symptoms are solely unilateral.