Comparing botulinum toxin and 4-duct ligation for Sialorrhea in children - A systematic review.

INTRODUCTION: Sialorrhea or drooling can result in physical and psychosocial complications, such as aspiration and social isolation. Treatment options include botulinum toxin into the salivary glands and 4-duct ligation (i.e., simultaneous ligation of the bilateral parotid and submandibular ducts). This systematic review aimed to compare the efficacy and complication rates of botulinum toxin and 4-duct ligation for the treatment of drooling in children. METHODS: Following PRISMA guidelines, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library were searched from inception through June 17, 2021 for studies examining the efficacy of botulinum toxin or 4-duct ligation for drooling in children. Data were summarized by pooled counts, percentages, and means. Complication rates were compared by a chi-squared test. RESULTS: A total of 22 studies (n = 606) examining botulinum toxin and 5 studies (n = 124) examining 4-duct ligation were included. From 12 botulinum toxin studies (n = 211), mean drooling frequency and severity scores was 7.5 at baseline. Mean difference from baseline was -2.6 (n = 92) at 4 weeks follow-up, -2.1 at 8 weeks (n = 41), -2.1 at 12 weeks (n = 56), and - 2.1 at 16 weeks (n = 58). From 4 4-duct ligation studies (n = 103), mean baseline drooling frequency and severity score was 8.4. Mean difference was -3.7 at mean follow-up of 35.6 months (n = 103). Eighteen botulinum studies (n = 343) recorded 53 (15.5 %) complications, including thickened saliva (n = 9), dysphagia (n = 4), and cheek abscesses (n = 4). Four 4-duct ligation studies (n = 108) recorded 25 (23.1 %) complications, including parotid gland swelling (n = 4), aspiration pneumonia (n = 3), and oxygen desaturation (n = 3). There was no statistically significant difference in complication rates between botulinum toxin and four-duct ligation (p = 0.065). CONCLUSION: Botulinum toxin injection and 4-duct ligation are both effective in improving sialorrhea in children and have comparable complication rates.

The Use of Vastus Lateralis Muscle Flap for Functional Lip Reconstruction.

BACKGROUND: Total or near-total lip defects poses a serious challenge to a reconstructive surgeon with static procedures not providing desired functional and aesthetic outcomes. The dynamic lip reconstructive methods using functional muscles have become a current issue in recent years showing admirable results. This study present 3 cases of successful total and near-total lip reconstruction are presented using vastus lateralis muscle. METHODS: This is a retrospective analysis of a consecutive series of 3 patients (2 men and 1 woman) aged 44 to 56 years (mean) who had resection of extensive squamous cell carcinoma 2 had both upper and lower lip involved and 1 had lower lip involvement only. After resection patients had near total full thickness lower lip defect and 40% upper lip defect. The innervated vastus lateralis muscle free flap was transferred to the lip and end-to-end vascular anastomosis on the facial artery and end-to-side to internal jaguar vein was performed. The marginal mandibular branch of the facial nerve was used for nerve coaptation. The inner and outer surfaces of the flaps were grafted with a thick-split-thickness skin graft. Drooling rating scale and patient and observer scar assessment scale as well as electromyography were performed to evaluate oral competency and aesthetic outcome. RESULTS: All patients underwent single stage near-total lower lip and 2 had part of upper lip reconstruction successfully and survived the surgical operation. One patient lost the skin graft and was managed consecutively and muscle granulated and healed. Two patients underwent radiation therapy and 1 died before starting radiation due to other unnatural causes. The 2 patients achieved perfect oral sphincter competence without drooling and at 9months postoperative demonstrated successful reinnervation of the vastus lateralis muscle. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates that lip reconstruction using an innervated vastus lateralis muscle free flap is a reliable method, providing a functional lip.

Surgery versus botulinum neurotoxin A to reduce drooling and improve daily life for children with neurodevelopmental disabilities: a randomized controlled trial.

AIM: To compare the effect of bilateral submandibular duct ligation and botulinum neurotoxin A (BoNT-A) on drooling severity and its impact on daily life and care in children and adolescents with moderate-to-severe drooling. METHOD: This was a randomized, interventional, controlled trial in which 53 children and adolescents (31 males, 22 females, mean age 11y, range 8-22y, SD 2y 10mo) with cerebral palsy (58.5%) or other non-progressive developmental disorders (41.5%) were randomized to BoNT-A (n=26) or bilateral submandibular duct ligation (n=27). A parent questionnaire on the severity of drooling in specific positions and daily activities and the impact of drooling on daily life and care was filled out at baseline and 8 and 32 weeks posttreatment. RESULTS: Both BoNT-A and bilateral submandibular duct ligation had a positive effect on daily care, damage to electronic equipment and/or furniture, social interactions, and self-esteem. However, bilateral submandibular duct ligation had a significant greater and longer-lasting short- (8wks) and medium-term (32wks) effect on daily care, reducing damage to electronic devices, and improving social interactions and satisfaction with life in general. INTERPRETATION: This randomized controlled trial confirms reduced drooling by both BoNT-A and bilateral submandibular duct ligation, but provides new evidence on improved well-being through a reduction in drooling. Even though there is a greater risk of complications and morbidity after bilateral submandibular duct ligation, compared to BoNT-A there was a significantly greater and longer-lasting positive effect on most outcomes. What this paper adds Bilateral botulinum neurotoxin A (BoNT-A) and submandibular duct ligation had a positive effect on the well-being of individuals with moderate-to-severe drooling. Bilateral submandibular duct ligation had a greater effect on the impact of drooling during daily care than BoNT-A. Bilateral submandibular duct ligation reduced damage to electronic devices and improved social interactions and satisfaction with life.

Modified Stair-Step Flap With Turnover Flap for Drooling Correction After Lower Lip Composite Defect Reconstruction.

BACKGROUND: Oral commissure and buccal complex defects are commonly seen after cancer ablation. Free flap reconstruction can offer adequate soft tissue volume and outer skin lining. However, oral incompetence often occurs when an oral commissure has defects, particularly when the patient receives postoperative radiotherapy. The purpose of this article was to describe our method of the modified stair-step technique and improve the oral competence. METHODS: This study involves 22 patients who had partial lower lip and/or upper lip defects and underwent flap reconstruction and/or postoperative radiotherapy resulting in oral incontinence. Fourteen patients had been treated with an anterolateral thigh flap, 7 patients had been treated with a radial forearm flap, and 1 patient had been treated with a fibular osteocutaneous flap. Our modified stair-step commissuroplasty was done in all cases, and a debulking procedure was done in each second operation. RESULTS: Acceptable oral continence and contour were achieved in 19 patients. Some patients still had drooling after their second operation, but it was considerably less than before. CONCLUSIONS: This technique is an easy procedure for revision of lower lip deformities after oral commissure reconstruction.

Subtotal functional sialoadenectomy vs four-duct ligation for the treatment of drooling in neurologically impaired children: Long-term follow-up.

OBJECTIVES: The best surgical option to treat drooling in neurodisabilities is still under debate. The aim of this study was to describe the technique of subtotal functional sialoadenectomy (SFS) (ie four-duct ligation (4-DL) together with bilateral sublingual gland excision) and its long-term outcomes, in comparison with 4-DL. DESIGN: Retrospective observational cohort study. SETTING: Unit of Pediatric Surgery of Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital (Rome). PARTICIPANTS: Seventy-five patients surgically treated for drooling between 2002 and 2012, with at least five years of follow-up, divided into two groups: 4-DL group (19 patients) underwent four-duct ligation, and SFS group (56 patients) underwent subtotal functional sialoadenectomy. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Primary end points were the evaluation of drooling improvement after surgery (parameters: Drooling Severity and Frequency Scale, DSFS; no of bibs/day; no of shirts/day; no of pneumonia/year; use of antidrooling drugs) and the comparison between two different surgical techniques. RESULTS: Median age at surgery was 10 years (1-35). Long-term outcomes showed significant improvement in DSFS and in no of shirts/day in both groups. Significantly better results were found in the SFS group than in the 4-DL group as far as DSFS (P value .045), no of bibs/day (P value .041), no of shirts/day (P value .032) are concerned. Reoperation rate for recurrence was 42% in the 4-DL group and 0% in the SFS group (P value < .0001). Six patients (8%; 2 in the 4-DL group and 4 in the SFS group) experienced perioperative complications, while 4 patients (5%; 2 in the 4-DL group and 2 in the SFS group) recorded long-term complications, with no difference between groups neither need for surgical treatment. No surgery-related mortality was recorded. CONCLUSIONS: In our experience, subtotal functional sialoadenectomy ensured significantly greater long-term effects than four-duct ligation for drooling treatment in neurologically impaired child, with equal complication rate.

Submandibular duct ligation after botulinum neurotoxin A treatment of drooling in children with cerebral palsy.

AIM: To assess: (1) the effect on drooling of bilateral submandibular duct ligation as surgical therapy after the administration of submandibular botulinum neurotoxin A (BoNT-A) for excessive drooling and (2) the predictive value of treatment success with BoNT-A on treatment success after bilateral submandibular duct ligation. METHOD: This was a within-participant retrospective observational study in which 29 children with severe drooling (15 males, 14 females) received BoNT-A treatment at a mean age of 9 years 6 months (SD 2y 5mo), followed by bilateral submandibular duct ligation at a mean age of 10 years 11 months (SD 2y 4mo). Fifteen children were diagnosed with cerebral palsy (CP), with 12 children classified in Gross Motor Function Classification System levels IV and V. The 14 children without CP had non-progressive developmental disorders. The primary drooling severity outcomes were the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS; subjective assessment) and drooling quotient (objective assessment). Measurements were taken before each intervention and again at 8 and 32 weeks. RESULTS: The VAS was significantly lower after bilateral submandibular duct ligation at follow-up compared to BoNT-A treatment (mean difference -33, p≤0.001; 95% confidence interval [CI]=-43.3 to -22.9). The mean drooling quotient did not significantly differ between BoNT-A treatment and bilateral submandibular duct ligation at follow-up (3.3, p=0.457; 95% CI=-4.35 to 9.62) or between 8 and 32 weeks (4.7, p=0.188; 95% CI=-2.31 to 11.65). INTERPRETATION: BoNT-A treatment and bilateral submandibular duct ligation are both effective treatment modalities for drooling. At 32-week follow-up, subjective drooling severity after bilateral submandibular duct ligation was significantly lower compared to previous BoNT-A injections in participants. However, treatment success with BoNT-A is no precursor to achieving success with bilateral submandibular duct ligation. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS: Bilateral submandibular duct ligation is an effective therapy for drooling after treatment with botulinum neurotoxin A (BoNT-A). Treatment success with BoNT-A is not a predictor of successful therapy with bilateral submandibular duct ligation.

Cost-effectiveness of botulinum neurotoxin A versus surgery for drooling: a randomized clinical trial.

AIM: This study compared the cost-effectiveness of botulinum neurotoxin A (BoNT-A) injections with two-duct ligation of the submandibular glands as treatment for severe drooling after one treatment cycle. METHOD: The study was part of a larger, partly single-blinded, randomized clinical trial (trialregister.nl identifier NTR3537). Data were collected between 2012 and 2017. Evaluation was at 32 weeks after one treatment cycle. Fifty-seven patients with cerebral palsy or other neurological, non-progressive disorders and severe drooling classified as having a drooling frequency ≥3 or a drooling severity ≥2, in whom conservative treatment was deemed ineffective, were randomized to treatment by BoNT-A or two-duct ligation. An incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) was calculated using the success rates as the measure of benefit. Treatment success was defined as a decrease ≥50% from baseline to 32 weeks in the subjective visual analogue scale for the severity of drooling or the objective drooling quotient. RESULTS: Fifty-three patients were analysed (22 females, 31 males; mean age 11y, range 8-22y). Average costs for one treatment cycle, which included one BoNT-A injection, were €1929 (standard error 62) for BoNT-A and €3155 (standard error 99) for two-duct ligation. Treatment success was in favour of two-duct ligation (63% vs 27%; number needed to treat 3). The ICER was €34 per 1% gain in treatment success in favour of two-duct ligation versus BoNT-A. INTERPRETATION: The additional cost of two-duct ligation is to some extent offset by a larger treatment success rate compared with BoNT-A. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS: Botulinum neurotoxin A (BoNT-A) is less expensive per percentage of success than two-duct ligation. The additional cost of two-duct ligation over BoNT-A is offset by greater treatment success.

Submandibular gland botulinum neurotoxin A injection for predicting the outcome of submandibular duct relocation in drooling: a retrospective cohort study.

AIM: This study evaluated whether the effect of submandibular gland botulinum neurotoxin A (BoNT-A) injection can predict the outcome of submandibular duct relocation with sublingual gland excision (SMDR) in children with drooling. Furthermore, we compared the effectiveness of both procedures. METHOD: A retrospective cohort study was performed in 42 children and adolescents (25 males, 17 females; mean [SD] age at BoNT-A injection 11y [4], range 4-20y; mean [SD] age at SMDR 15y [4], range 7-23y) with cerebral palsy or another non-progressive developmental disability who had undergone both BoNT-A injection and SMDR for drooling. Main outcomes were the drooling quotient and the visual analogue scale (VAS) on drooling severity at 8 weeks and 32 weeks follow-up. RESULTS: Failure or success of previous BoNT-A injections had no influence on success of consecutive SMDR. Relative change in main outcomes showed no significant relation between BoNT-A injection and SMDR for any follow-up measurement. After 8 weeks, SMDR was more successful than BoNT-A injection in diminishing VAS (VAS 80.0% vs 54.3%; drooling quotient 56.2% vs 51.0%). After 32 weeks, both drooling quotient (64.3% vs 29.5%) and VAS (75.7% vs 37.1%) showed significantly higher proportions of success for SMDR. INTERPRETATION: The effect of submandibular BoNT-A injection does not predict subsequent SMDR success in drooling. Furthermore, SMDR has a larger and longer-lasting positive effect on drooling than BoNT-A injections. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS: Submandibular botulinum neurotoxin A (BoNT-A) injection effect does not predict submandibular duct relocation with sublingual gland excision outcome. Submandibular duct relocation is more effective and more permanent than BoNT-A injection.

INYECCIÓN DE NEUROTOXINA BOTULÍNICA A EN LA GLÁNDULA SUBMANDIBULAR PARA PREDECIR EL RESULTADO DE LA REUBICACIÓN DEL CONDUCTO SUBMANDIBULAR EN BABEO: UN ESTUDIO DE COHORTE RETROSPECTIVO: OBJETIVO: Este estudio evaluó si el efecto de la inyección de neurotoxina A botulínica submandibular (BoNT-A) puede predecir el resultado de la reubicación del conducto submandibular con escisión de la glándula sublingual (SMDR) en niños con babeo. Además, comparamos la efectividad de ambos procedimientos. MÉTODO: Se realizó un estudio de cohorte retrospectivo en 42 niños y adolescentes (25 varones, 17 mujeres; edad media [DE] en la inyección de BoNT-A 11 años [4], rango 4-20 años; edad media [SD] a SMDR 15 años [4] rango 7-23 años) con parálisis cerebral u otra discapacidad del desarrollo no progresiva que se haya sometido a una inyección de BoNT-A y SMDR para babear. Los resultados principales fueron el cociente de babeo y la escala analógica visual (VAS) en la severidad del babeo a las 8 semanas y 32 semanas de seguimiento. RESULTADOS: El fracaso o el éxito de las inyecciones anteriores de BoNT-A no tuvo influencia en el éxito de la SMDR consecutiva. El cambio relativo en los resultados principales no mostró una relación significativa entre la inyección de BoNT-A y SMDR para cualquier medición de seguimiento. Después de 8 semanas, SMDR fue más exitoso que la inyección de BoNT-A en la VAS disminuida (VAS 80,0% vs 54,3%; cociente de babeo 56,2% vs 51,0%). Después de 32 semanas, tanto el cociente de babeo (64,3% vs 29,5%) como el VAS (75,7% vs 37,1%) mostraron proporciones significativamente más altas de éxito para SMDR. INTERPRETACIÓN: El efecto de la inyección submandibular de BoNT-A no predice el éxito posterior de SMDR en el babeo. Además, el SMDR tiene un efecto positivo mayor y más duradero en el babeo que las inyecciones de BoNT-A.

INJEÇÃO DE NEUROTOXINA BOTULÍNICA NA GLÂNDULA SUBMANDIBULAR PARA PREDIÇÃO DO RESULTADO DA RELOCACÃO DO DUCTO SUBMANDIBULAR NA SIALORRÉIA: UM ESTUDO DE COORTE RETROSPECTIVO: OBJETIVO: Este estudo avaliou se o efeito da neurotoxina botulínica A (NTBo-A) na glândula submandibular pode predizer o resultado da relocação do ducto submandibular com excisão sublingual da glândula (RDSM) em crianças com sialorréia. Ainda, comparamos a efetividade de ambos os procedimentos. MÉTODO: Um estudo de coorte retrospectivo foi realizado em 42 crianças e adolescentes (25 do sexo masculino, 17 do sexo feminino; idade média [DP] no momento da injeção de NTBo-A 11a[4], variação de 4-20a; idade média [DP] no momento da RDSM 15a [4], variação de 7-23a) com paralisia cerebral ou outra desordem não-progressiva do desenvolvimento que passaram por injeção de NTBo-A e RDSM para sialorréia. Os principais desfechos foram o quociente de sialorréia e a escala visual análoga (EVA) sobre a severidade da sialorréia no acompanhamento de 8 e 32 semanas. RESULTADOS: A falha ou sucesso da NTBo-A prévia não teve influência no sucesso da RDSM consecutiva. A mudança relativa nos principais desfechos não mostrou nenhuma relação significativa entre a injeção de NTBo-A e a RDSM para nenhuma das medidas no acompanhamento. Após 8 semanas, a RDSM foi mais bem sucedida do que a NTBo-A na redução da EVA (EVA 80,0% vs 54,3%; quociente de sialorréia 56,2% vs 51,0%). Após 32 semanas, tanto o quociente de sialorréia (64,3% vs 29,5%) quanto a EVA (75,7% vs 37,1%) mostram proporções significativamente mais altas de sucesso para a RDSM. INTERPRETAÇÃO: O efeito da injeção submandibular de NTBo-A não prediz o sucesso da RDSM subsequente na sialorréia. Ainda, a RDSM tem efeito maior e mais duradouro na sialorréia do que injeções de NTBo-A.

A systematic review of noninvasive and invasive sialorrhoea management.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: To review published literature pertaining to the management of sialorrhoea while also highlighting the significance of the multidisciplinary approach. BACKGROUND: Sialorrhoea is a common and troublesome problem among certain neurological patients. It is distressing for patients and caregivers, and can be challenging for healthcare professionals. Various sialorrhoea management approaches have been documented. However, there is no clear consensus on best management practices. Therefore, it is necessary to systematically review and synthesise various approaches so as to provide an understanding of the efficacy of management approaches. DESIGN: Systematic literature review using PRISMA checklist (see Appendix S1). METHOD: Five databases (ScienceDirect, Wiley Online Library, CINAHL, Cochrane Library and PubMed) were searched (years 2001-2018) following inclusion criteria. Out of 1,294 identified records, 29 studies met the inclusion criteria. RESULTS: Various management approaches identified, ranging from noninvasive, such as speech therapy aiming to enhance swallowing behaviour, to invasive treatment including anticholinergic medication, botulinum toxin injection and surgical techniques. However, in the majority of cases, there is no scientific evidence-based management protocol leading to favourable results, and the evidence base for intervention effectiveness remains weak. CONCLUSIONS: The multifactor nature of sialorrhoea and its associated complications presents challenges for the medical care team. None of the management strategies stand alone as the best modality; therefore, it is proposed that management strategies follow a multidisciplinary approach to meet the diverse needs of patients. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE: A comprehensive understanding of different sialorrhoea management approaches will enable healthcare professionals to identify the signs and symptoms regarding sialorrhoea, and to assist in effective management implementation. This will help to improve the management of sialorrhoea, hence, to improve quality of life of patients and provide formative scope to the development of an integrated care pathway.

Effects of treatments for drooling on caries risk in children and adolescents with cerebral palsy.

BACKGROUND: Neuromuscular impairment makes individuals with cerebral palsy (CP) more prone to drooling. Among the treatment options, there are procedures that interfere with saliva production. It is imperative to evaluate the effect of the different modalities since the reduction in salivary flow rate/production may exacerbate the risk of dental caries. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The aim of this study was to compare the effects of different treatments for drooling on caries risk and salivary parameters in children and adolescents with CP. STUDY DESIGN: A total of 142 children and adolescents with CP, aged 6 to 18 years, were assigned to groups based on the different treatments they had received for drooling: G1-anticholinergic drugs (n = 18), G2-botulinum toxin injection (n = 16), G3-salivary glands surgery (n = 16), G4-no treatment (n = 42), and G5-non-drooling subjects (n = 50). All participants were evaluated on the Simplified Oral Hygiene Index, and for the prevalence of dental caries (decayed, missing, and filled teeth index and white spot lesions). Unstimulated whole saliva was collected, and salivary flow rate and osmolality were measured. Chi-square, ANOVA and Poisson regression were calculated. Prevalence ratios and their respective 95 % confidence intervals were obtained. The significance level was fixed at 5%. RESULTS: No differences were found in the decayed, missing, and filled teeth index (p = 0.128) and Simplified Oral Hygiene Index (p = 0.674) among the different groups. G3 presented significantly higher percentages of WSL (p < 0.001), lower values of salivary flow rate (p < 0.001), and higher values of osmolality (p < 0.001). The white spot lesion prevalence ratio was higher only for G3 (Prevalence ratio = 14.36; IC 95% = 4.64-44.40; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Children and adolescents with CP who had received surgical treatment for drooling exhibited higher number of white spot lesions because of the reduced salivary flow rate and higher salivary osmolality.

Effectiveness of submandibular duct relocation in 91 children with excessive drooling: A prospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of submandibular duct relocation (SMDR) in drooling children with neurological disorders. DESIGN: Prospective cohort study. SETTING: Academic Outpatient Saliva Control Clinic. PARTICIPANTS: Ninety-one children suffering from moderate to severe drooling. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Direct observational drooling quotient (DQ; 0-100) and caretaker Visual Analogue Scale (VAS; 0-100). Secondary outcome measures were drooling severity (DS) and frequency rating scales. RESULTS: The DQ at baseline, 8 and 32 weeks postoperatively was 26.4, 12.3 and 10.8, respectively. VAS score decreased from 80.1 at baseline to 28.3 and 37.0 at 8 and 32 weeks after surgery. Median DS at baseline, 8 and 32 weeks was 5, 3 and 4, whereas the drooling frequency median scores were 4, 2 and 2, respectively. Five children required prolonged intubation due to transient floor of the mouth swelling, two of whom developed a ventilator-associated pneumonia. Another child developed atelectasis with postoperative pneumonia. Two more children needed tube feeding because of postoperative eating difficulties for 3 days or suprapubic catheterisation for urinary retention. Children aged 12 years or older (OR = 3.41; P = 0.03) and those with adequate stability and position of the head (OR = 2.84; P = 0.09) appeared to benefit most from treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Submandibular duct relocation combined with excision of the sublingual glands appears to be relatively safe and effective in diminishing visible drooling in children with neurological disorders, particularly in children aged 12 years and older and those without a forward head posture.

Tracheostomy and salivary gland radiotherapy for severe sialorrhoea in motor neurone disease.

The management of excessive secretions in patients with motor neurone disease can be challenging. In this paper, we highlight the main issues from the perspectives of a patient, specialist nurse and neurologist and the importance of a multidisciplinary approach.

Percutaneous CT-Guided Cryoablation of the Salivary Glands in a Porcine Model.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the imaging, histologic changes and safety of computed tomography (CT)-guided cryoablation of the parotid glands in a porcine model. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Unilateral CT-guided parotid gland cryoablation was performed in 5 juvenile miniature pigs. The ablated parotid glands underwent 2 cycles of 10-minute freeze and 5-minute thaw using three 17-g cryoprobes. The animals were monitored daily for complications including pain, frostbite, infection, and sialocele or fistula formation. Follow-up CT was performed at 6 weeks postcryoablation. Pathologic evaluation was performed on 2 of the ablated parotid glands. RESULTS: All cryoablations in 5 right parotid glands, with 3 sites in each gland, were technically successful. No symptoms suggestive of facial nerve damage were observed during 6-week follow-up. One pig developed an infected sialocele, which was treated with percutaneous drainage and oral antibiotic therapy. No CT evidence of sialocele or other abnormality was identified at the 6-week follow-up in all pigs. Histologic evaluation was performed on 2 of the parotid gland specimens, 1 with the treated sialocele, and 1 of the remaining pigs without sialocele. Both glands demonstrated postprocedural intraglandular lymph nodes and reactive changes without evidence of sialocele or abscess on histopathology. CONCLUSIONS: Cryoablation of parotid glands was technically feasible in a porcine model. Only 1 pig developed sialocele, which was successfully treated. Further research is warranted to determine the potential use of salivary gland cryoablation to treat patients with drooling.

[Bilateral submandibulectomy for the treatment of drooling in pediatric age: 10 years of experience]. / Submandibulectomía bilateral para tratamiento de sialorrea en edad pediátrica.

INTRODUCTION: Sialorrhea is a medical problem and can become a social issue, common in children with neurological disabilities. The bilateral submandibulectomy is one of the available treatment options for managing this pathology. AIM OF THE STUDY: The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of bilateral submandibulectomy in the management of sialorrhea in children with neurological disabilities through the parents' satisfaction grade. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed 91 bilateral submandibulectomies for a period of time of 10 years (2004-2015). Data were taken from surgical records and patients files and were informatically processed. The severity grade before and after surgery was evaluated in line with the modified Teacher scale. Parental satisfaction was evaluated by applying a scale graded into five classes, according to the degree of sialorrhea severity in postoperative period. RESULTS: During the reporting period, 91 children underwent bilateral submandibulectomy in our center. Of these, 7 cases were excluded for lack of data. The average age of the children was 8,9 [± 3,5] years; 58,3% were male. The degree of preoperative sialorrhea severity was, in 52,4% of cases, level 4 (severe drooling), and in 28,6%, level 5 (very severe). The grade of parental satisfaction in postoperative period was ranked, in 73,8% of cases, between 81-100%. CONCLUSIONS: For children with drooling, a bilateral submandibulectomy emerges as an effective and efficient treatment, leaving parents with an extremely high satisfaction grade.

INTRODUCCION: La sialorrea es un problema médico y social, común en los niños con enfermedad neurológica. La submandibulectomía surge como una opción terapéutica posible y eficaz para esta patología. OBJETIVO: Evaluar la eficacia de la submandibulectomía bilateral, a través del grado de satisfacción de los padres de niños con sialorrea, sometidos a este procedimiento. MATERIAL Y METODOS: Análisis retrospectivo de 91 casos de niños sometidos a submandibulectomía bilateral durante 10 años (2004 a 2015). Los datos fueron obtenidos de los registros clínicos de cada paciente y tratados informáticamente. El grado de severidad en el pre y postoperatorio fue evaluado según la escala de Teacher modificada. La satisfacción de los padres fue evaluada a través de la aplicación de una escala que se divide en 5 clases, conforme el grado de severidad de sialorrea en el postoperatorio. RESULTADOS: Durante el periodo analizado, fueron sometidos a submandibulectomía bilateral 91 niños. De estos, fueron excluidos 7 casos por ausencia de datos. La edad media de los niños fue de 8,9 [± 3,5] años, siendo 58,3% del sexo masculino. El grado de severidad de sialorrea preoperatoria fue, en 52,4% de los casos, de nivel 4 (sialorrea grave) y, en 28,6%, de nivel 5 (muy grave). El grado de satisfacción de los padres fue alto o muy alto en el 94% de los casos. CONCLUSION: Para los niños con sialorrhea, la submandibulectomía surge como un tratamiento eficaz, que deja a los padres muy satisfechos y permite una mejor integración de los niños en la sociedad.

Transoral submandibular ganglion neurectomy: an anatomical feasibility study.

BACKGROUND: The management of sialorrhea can be difficult for both the patient and the clinician. Current management includes behavioral modification, anticholinergics, botulinum injections, and a variety of surgical options, which all have demonstrated some efficacy. As minimally invasive procedures flourish, we explore the feasibility of highly selective transoral submandibular neurectomy (TOSN) for the management of sialorrhea. METHODS: Ten human cadaver dissections of the floor of mouth were performed bilaterally, for a total of 20 separate cases. An intraoral technique for highly selective, submandibular ganglion neurectomy is demonstrated. RESULTS: A transoral submandibular ganglion neurectomy was performed in 10 cadavers (20 neurectomies) easily and reliably, without injury to the submandibular duct or the main trunk of the lingual nerve. CONCLUSION: Transoral submandibular neurectomy is an attractive addition to the armamentarium of surgical options for the treatment of medically intractable sialorrhea. Further study in selected patients would need to be performed to demonstrate clinical feasibility.

Treatment and long-term follow-up of oral cancer postoperative sialorrhea with dermal sling operation.

INTRODUCTION: Reconstruction of a full-thickness defect that includes oral commissure presents a considerable challenge to maxillofacial and plastic surgeons. The goals of reconstruction are both functional and cosmetic. Sialorrhea, or drooling, is a major problem after flap reconstruction and influences the quality of life of the patient. In this article, we report on our experience performing a dermal sling operation to treat postoperative sialorrhea in patients with oral cancer. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Preoperative and postoperative levels of sialorrhea were evaluated based on the Drooling Severity and Frequency Scale. Dermal sling operations were performed on 27 patients from January 2000 to December 2013. In these patients, 12 cases were reviewed and followed up over 1 year. RESULTS: Of the 12 patients, 11 were men and one was a woman, with the mean age of 58 years (range, 40-79 years). There were no operative complications. The mean preoperative score was 4.75 (range, 3-7), and the mean postoperative score was 3.83 (range, 2-5). This change was significant (P=0.005), with valuation with the Wilcoxon signed rank test. The mean time of follow-up was 3.5 years (range, 1.1-7.7 years). CONCLUSIONS: The dermal sling operation is an acceptable treatment for postoperative sialorrhea in patients with commissure-involved oral cancer.

Functional Sharing of the Upper Orbicularis Oris Muscle for the Reconstruction of the Lower Lip.

The lip reconstruction is a very controversial topic in plastic surgery and many flaps have been described for this purpose. Despite all of the interventions, some patients still have problems such as drooling and gingival show that decrease their quality of life. In this study, the authors report a patient whose lower lip was resected totally for squamous cell carcinoma. His lip was reconstructed with radial forearm flap and the patient was referred to our clinic with the aforementioned complaints. A portion of the orbicularis oris muscle of the upper lip was designed as a bipedicled flap, and it was transposed to the lower lip to make the initial flap functional. After the operation, the sphincteric function of the lip was better, and the problems as drooling and gingival show were absent. In conclusion, this flap can be a good option to make the initial nonfunctional flaps (such as radial forearm flap), functional in the aspect of lower lip reconstruction. It has a function, and it is concordant with the principle of "reconstructing like with like." The native muscle tissue of the upper lip can be transferred partially to maintain physiologic oral competency.

The Positive Effect of Adenotonsillectomy on Drooling in Children.

OBJECTIVES: (1) To investigate the prevalence and severity of drooling among healthy young children referred for adenotonsillectomy; (2) to evaluate the effect of adenotonsillectomy on drooling. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective study. SETTING: Tertiary referral center. METHODS: Healthy typically developed children aged 18 to 48 months referred to adenotonsillectomy for upper airway obstruction (UAO) were recruited. Age-matched children recruited from the community served as controls. Drooling frequency and severity were assessed at baseline and 2 months following surgery based on 2 subjective scales: the Drooling Infants and Preschoolers Scale (DRIPS) and Thomas-Stonell and Greenberg Saliva Severity Scale (TSGS). RESULTS: Eighty-seven children aged 18 to 48 months were included in the study. Forty-three children referred to adenotonsillectomy (study group) and 44 age-matched controls. There were significant differences in almost all of the DRIPS items between children in the presurgery group compared to controls. Drooling severity and frequency were greater in the former compared to the latter (TGF-s severity: 1.4 ± 1.0 vs 0.6 ± 0.8, P = .001; TGF frequency: 1.3 ± 0.9 vs 0.5 ± 0.6, P < .001). After surgery, the scores for all DRIPS and TSGS items decreased significantly and were comparable to the control group. CONCLUSIONS: The frequency and severity of drooling among otherwise young children referred for adenotonsillectomy were greater than those for healthy controls. Following surgery, both the frequency and severity significantly improved and became comparable to those of controls. These findings suggest that a major improvement in drooling is one of the benefits of a surgical intervention in a child with UAO.

Pulmonary and Clinical Outcomes After Bilateral Submandibular Gland Excision and Parotid Duct Ligation for Refractory Sialorrhea.

Importance: Refractory sialorrhea in children can result in pulmonary aspiration and irreversible lung damage. Despite many studies devoted to the surgical treatment of sialorrhea, there is a paucity of objective outcome measures after surgery, especially with regard to pulmonary health. Objectives: To assess whether bilateral submandibular gland excision and bilateral parotid duct ligation ("DROOL" procedure) is associated with reduced pulmonary inflammation in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) samples after surgery and to assess patient factors associated with improvement after surgery. Design, Setting, and Participants: This retrospective case series included all 112 patients undergoing the DROOL procedure at a single tertiary care pediatric children's hospital from January 1, 2012, to December 31, 2021. Statistical analysis was performed from March 30 to June 10, 2023, and August 20 to September 23, 2023. Exposure: DROOL procedure for refractory sialorrhea. Main Outcomes and Measures: Degree of pulmonary inflammation (neutrophil percentage) according to BAL cytologic findings and overall bronchoscopy findings up to 12 months before and after the DROOL procedure. Secondary outcomes included number of annual hospitalizations, caregiver report of function before and after the procedure, and need for revision procedures and/or additional operations for secretion management. Results: A total of 112 patients (median age, 3.4 years [IQR, 2.0-7.1 years]; 65 boys [58.0%]) underwent DROOL procedures and had both preoperative and postoperative BAL samples during the study period. Patients demonstrated objective improvement in pulmonary inflammation after surgery, with the median polymorphonuclear neutrophil percentage decreasing from 65.0% (IQR, 14.0%-86.0%) before the surgery to 32.5% (IQR, 3.0%-76.5%) after the surgery (median difference in percentage points, -9.0 [95% CI, -20.0 to 0.0]). Prior to the DROOL procedure, 34 patients (30.4%; 95% CI, 21.8%-38.9%) were hospitalized 2 or more times annually for respiratory illness, which decreased to 10.1% (11 of 109; 95% CI, 4.4%-15.7%) after surgery (3 patients did not have hospitalization data available following surgery). Most caretakers (73 [65.2%]) reported improved secretion management after the procedure. Conclusions and Relevance: This study suggests that patients with impaired secretion management who underwent a DROOL procedure demonstrated improvement in pulmonary inflammation and a reduction in hospitalizations after surgery. Caretakers were also likely to report subjective improvement in secretion management and quality of life. Additional research is necessary to guide optimal timing and patient selection for this procedure.