This protocol covers patients with repeated episodes of submandibular gland pain and swelling — typically triggered or worsened by meals — where examination or imaging has identified a salivary stone (sialolith) or duct stricture as the underlying cause. Recurrent infections are a common complication in this setting.
The submandibular gland is the most commonly affected site in sialolithiasis, accounting for 80–90% of cases. Patients report characteristic postprandial salivary pain and swelling that recurs with eating. A palpable or imaging-confirmed stone or duct stricture distinguishes this presentation from other causes of submandibular sialadenitis.
Management is surgical, with stone removal as the objective. The choice of surgical approach is determined by the location of the stone within the gland or duct system — both open and minimally invasive endoscopic options are available. The complete decision algorithm is in the full protocol.