Recurrent sialoliths after excision of the bilateral submandibular glands for sialolithiasis treatment: A case report

Sialolithiasis is a common disease that is characterized by the obstruction of the salivary gland. Sialolithiasis mainly affects the submandibular glands and the Wharton's duct. However, bilateral sialolithiasis is a rare condition. In addition, recurrence of sialoliths subsequent to surgical excision of the submandibular gland for the treatment of sialolithiasis has been rarely reported. The present study reported a case presenting with recurrent sialoliths with sialadenitis in the residual Wharton's duct following the excision of bilateral submandibular glands. An 81-year-old man presented with a solid and painful mass in the left submandibular area. The patient had a history of bilateral submandibular sialolithiasis, and had undergone excision of bilateral submandibular glands with the right Wharton's duct 4 years earlier. Computed tomography scans demonstrated two calculi in the residual Wharton's duct, which were surgically removed without any complications. The present study discussed the mechanisms underlying sialolith formation subsequent to the excision of submandibular glands.