A modified method for simple dilatation of the duct orifice in sialendoscopy

Abstract Objective As the first step in sialendoscopy, the orifice of the salivary duct is progressively dilated using different sized salivary probes before the sialendoscope is inserted. However, the procedure can be challenging as surgeons may lose the duct orifice and find it difficult to re-identify after each probe change. To overcome this problem, we previously reported a simple technique using a guidewire, but a more cost-effective and time-saving approach is needed. We describe a modified method for simple dilatation of the papilla orifice to introduce the sialendoscope easily into the ductal lumen. Methods A 24 G angiocatheter and a 0.5-mm-diameter salivary or lacrimal probe is prepared preoperatively. The tip of the angiocatheter (3.3–0.7 mm outer diameter) is cut and the probe is threaded into the tapered catheter. On identifying the duct orifice by pressing the salivary gland, they are inserted together into the duct orifice. Only the catheter is advanced into the duct along the probe to dilate the orifice. The orifice can be easily dilated without losing the papilla entrance. After removing the catheter, a sialoendoscope can be inserted easily into the duct. Results We performed more than 100 procedures using this modified method and the sialendoscope could be inserted into the duct within 10 s after probe insertion into the orifice. Conclusion This method offers simple dilatation of the papilla orifice to introduce the sialendoscope.