10. Surgical Interventions: When Medicine Isn’t Enough
When antibiotics and other medications don’t resolve parotitis, surgical intervention may be necessary. However, surgical treatment for parotitis is generally considered a last resort due to its potential risks and complications.
One common surgical procedure is parotid duct ligation, in which the duct is tied off to prevent saliva from pooling in the gland. This method can be effective but also has its drawbacks, such as the potential for further infection and the necessity for a second surgery to remove the ligature.
Another advanced technique is parotidectomy, the removal of the parotid gland. It’s a more radical option and is usually reserved for severe, recurring cases. The procedure has its own set of complications, including potential facial nerve damage.
Minimally invasive techniques are also gaining traction. Procedures like sialendoscopy use tiny cameras and instruments to examine and treat the salivary duct system. It’s less invasive and comes with fewer risks but is also less effective for more severe cases. (10)
