A sialocele is a localized, subcutaneous cavity containing saliva.[1][2] It is caused by trauma (e.g. violence, accident or surgery) or infection.[1] They most commonly develop about 8–14 days after injury.[3]
They are a relatively common complication following surgery to the salivary glands,[4] commonly parotidectomy (removal of the parotid gland).[5] In this case the sialocele is the result of saliva draining out of remaining parotid tissue, and occurs about 5 to 10% of cases of superficial (partial) parotidectomy.[5][6]
It is usually not painful,[6] and a mild and self-limiting complication,[5] and is managed by repeated aspiration (draining) of the swelling via a needle after the skin has been disinfected with an antibacterial.[5][6] The fluid is usually a clear yellow, and contains amylase (in contrast to fluid from a seroma).[6]Pressure dressings do not tend to be used.[6] They are rarely chronic, however if persistent a surgical drain may be required.[6]Botulinum toxin injections have also been used to manage this condition.[3]
