Radiološka dijagnostika sijalolitijaze

Abstract

The existence of possible pathological conditions of the salivary glands requires the use of certain imaging techniques, which contributes to a better diagnosis of the disorder and proper treatment. Stones, inflammatory processes and tumors are conditions that are accompanied by unpleasant symptoms inside the oral cavity. Sialolithiasis is the presence of stones in the salivary glands and is a common pathological disorder. The aim of this paper is to present the diagnostic imaging of sialolithiasis. That includes the methods of dental radiography and different methods of sialography. Conventional imaging techniques in dental radiography have been abandoned over time. USG and sialography methods are more often used in clinical practice nowadays. Sialographic methods include the application of a contrast medium, which results in a better visualization of the excretory ducts of the salivary glands, in both conventional and digital imaging. CT and MRI sialography methods visualize smaller stones better in the salivary excretory ducts, with some limitations. The results of the recently reviewed scientific researches show that the radiographic imaging methods for sialolithiasis are complementary. Sialography and USG are the initial methods in diagnosing sialolithiasis, but the use of CT and MR can provide valuable additional diagnostic information.