Gland-preserving surgery for pleomorphic adenoma in the submandibular gland.

Background: Removal of tumours arising in the submandibular gland (SMG) usually involves excision of the entire gland. This prospective study evaluated the efficacy of gland-preserving surgery in patients with benign SMG tumours.

Methods: Twenty consecutive patients with pleomorphic adenomas in the SMG underwent local excision of tumours with limited tumour-free margins and preservation of the remnant glandular tissues. All patients had salivary scintigraphy before and 6 months after surgery, with ultrasonography 2 years after operation. Complications, operating time, salivary function and rates of tumour recurrence were evaluated.

Results: The mean operating time was 28 min, and no patient had neurological complications. After surgery, the function of the affected gland was equal to that of the unaffected gland. All patients had symmetrical facial contours without defects in the operated submandibular triangle. None of the patients had evidence of tumour recurrence on ultrasonographic examination and regular clinical examination at a median of 36 months after surgery.

Conclusions: Gland-preserving surgery in patients with benign SMG tumours preserves salivation, and reduces surgical morbidity and operating time, with good cosmesis but without compromising local control.