Some sialographic findings in traumatic lesions of the parotid duct and gland.

The sialographic findings in 17 patients presenting with a parotid swelling and, or fistula following facial trauma are reported.Knife inflicted wounds accounted for the majority of cases.The commonest findings were complete occlusion of the main parotid duct or a patent main duct communicating with a contrast-filled cavity (sialocele). Less commonly, there was occlusion of a major branch duct or evidence of dilatation and irregularity of segments of large or small ducts (infective in origin ?). In 2 instances a parotid swelling was simulated by an extrasali vary lesion (subcutaneous hematoma or abscess).The clinical features of injury to the parotid duct and/or gland, and the various modes of therapy advocated for dealing with a persistent salivary fistula are briefly mentioned.