OK-432 treatment of ranula extending to the parapharyngeal space

Abstract

Conclusions: Our results confirmed that OK-432 therapy is simple, easy, safe, and effective and can be used as a substitute for surgery in the treatment of ranula extending to the parapharyngeal space. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcome and complications of the OK-432 treatment of patients with ranula extending to the parapharyngeal space. Methods: This was a case series with planned data collection at Yamagata University and Fukase clinic. We tried this therapy in six patients with ranula extending to the parapharyngeal space, between January 2001 and February 2012. We injected OK-432 solution into the lesion with an 18 or 27 gauge needle depending on the patient's condition (location and size of ranula and complications). This treatment was performed on an outpatient basis without hospitalization. Results: Disappearance or marked reduction of the lesion were observed in all patients who had this therapy, and local scarring and deformity of the injection sites did not occur in any patients. As side effects, local pain at the injection site and fever (37–39°C) were observed in 40% of the patients who had this therapy, but such problems resolved within a few days.