Sialography is an X-ray test used to diagnose salivary gland abnormalities. Patients do not need to restrict food or fluids before the test, but should inform their doctor of any allergies. The test involves injecting contrast medium into the mouth and taking X-rays. There is a low risk associated with the procedure.
Sialography is X-ray imaging of a patient’s salivary glands, as well as the ducts connected to them. Commonly called a sialogram, this is a diagnostic test that a doctor can use to determine the cause of any salivary gland abnormalities. These glands are responsible for supplying saliva to the mouth and are found on both sides of a person’s face. A sialography can reveal problems such as salivary duct stones, an infection of the salivary glands, or narrowing of the ducts connected to the glands.
Before undergoing sialography, patients will meet with their doctors to discuss their medical conditions and preparation for the test. Typically, patients will not need to restrict food or fluid intake beforehand. Some people, however, may prefer to be given a sedative if they are nervous about the medical test. Those intending to be sedated may be given specific dietary instructions.
Patients should also let their doctors know if they have any allergies, especially any allergies to iodinated substances or X-ray contrast materials. Drug allergies should also be discussed. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should discuss the potential risks with their doctors. Many hospitals and clinics require sialography patients to sign a consent form.
When the patient arrives at the hospital, a lab technician will rinse their mouth with an antiseptic solution. If he has very little saliva production, he may be given lemon juice to put in his mouth. This stimulates the salivary glands to release saliva.
After the patient lies down on the examination table, sialography begins with an injection of contrast medium. The x-ray technician will inject the contrast material into a tube located in the lower part of the patient’s mouth. This allows the sialogram to more clearly show areas of the mouth that may be experiencing problems. While this is not a painful procedure, some patients have reported that the contrast dye has an unpleasant taste. It can also cause temporary feelings of pressure or general discomfort.
After the contrast medium is injected, the technician will take x-rays from different angles of the patient’s mouth. Sometimes, the technician will take the x-rays first, then pop lemon juice into the patient’s mouth and take more x-rays. Sialography done in this way allows the neuroradiologist to see if there is a problem with saliva drainage.
Typically, patients are able to return to their normal activities soon after sialography. If they are given a sedative, they may be monitored for a period of time and would not have to drive home. There is generally a very low risk associated with sialography, however some patients report mild swelling and tenderness in the area. Small amounts of radiation are used, however children and pregnant women may be more sensitive to this.
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