BACKGROUND:

During the last 13 years, there has been a growing interest in and use of minimally invasive treatment techniques. Salivary gland endoscopes provide an accurate means of diagnosing and providing minimally invasive surgical treatment for salivary gland diseases.

METHODS:

The authors review the relevant literature and provide the history of sialoendoscopy. They also report on the treatment methods they use, including instruments and techniques, and their experiences.

RESULTS:

The authors' overall success rate for parotid endoscopic sialolithotomy is 86 percent, and their overall success rate for submandibular endoscopic sialolithotomy is 89 percent. Their success rate for treating strictures is 81 percent.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS:

The endoscopic technique opens new horizons in the field of salivary gland diseases. Salivary gland stones and sialadenitis no longer are absolute indications for sialadenectomy. Owing to growing experience and surgical skills, new endoscopic techniques are in clinical use, and there is constant improvement in endoscopic treatment success rates.

CONCLUSIONS:

Sialoendoscopy is a promising new method for use in the diagnosis, treatment and postoperative management of sialadenitis, sialolithiasis and other obstructive salivary gland diseases.