Salivary Stones Surgery: Relief for Painful Blockages by Dr. Sreenivasa Murthy T.M.

Does a painful lump near your jaw make mealtimes miserable?

You might have salivary stones, a common condition that can block saliva flow and cause discomfort. Here, at Columbia Asia Referral Hospital in Yeswanthpur, Bangalore, our esteemed ENT specialist and surgeon, Dr. Sreenivasa Murthy T.M., offers expert salivary stone surgery to bring relief.

About Salivary Stones Surgery

Salivary stones develop when mineral deposits accumulate within the salivary gland ducts. This blockage prevents saliva from flowing freely, leading to pain, swelling, and difficulty eating. Salivary stone surgery removes the blockage, restoring normal saliva flow and relieving your symptoms.

About Dr. Sreenivasa Murthy T.M.

Dr. Sreenivasa Murthy T.M. is a highly regarded ENT specialist with over 20 years of experience. He holds qualifications from prestigious institutions like Bangalore Medical College and KKR ENT Hospital and Research Institute. Currently serving as the Chief of ENT at Columbia Asia Referral Hospital, Dr. Murthy is known for his expertise and skills in salivary stone surgery and various other ENT procedures.

The Surgical Process

Salivary stone surgery can be minimally invasive or traditional, depending on the stone's location and size.

• Minimally Invasive Sialendoscopy: For smaller stones, Dr. Murthy may use a sialendoscope, a thin, lighted instrument inserted into the salivary duct opening in your mouth. Through the scope, he can visualize the stone and utilize specialized tools to remove or break it into smaller pieces for easier extraction.
• Traditional Surgery: In some cases, a small incision near the affected gland might be necessary to access and remove the stone. Dr. Murthy will discuss the most suitable approach for your specific situation.

Benefits and Risks of Surgery

Benefits:

• Relief from pain and swelling
• Improved saliva flow
• Reduced risk of infection
• Restoration of normal eating and swallowing

Risks:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Facial nerve injury (rare)
• Temporary taste changes

Dr. Murthy will thoroughly discuss the potential benefits and risks during your consultation to ensure you make an informed decision.

Recovery

Following surgery, you might experience some discomfort and swelling. Dr. Murthy will provide specific instructions for pain management, wound care, and dietary modifications to promote optimal healing. Recovery typically takes one to two weeks, with a gradual return to normal activities.

FAQs

1. Can salivary stones come back?

While uncommon, salivary stones can recur. Dr. Murthy may recommend preventive measures to minimize the risk, such as increasing fluid intake and maintaining good oral hygiene.

2. What happens if I don't remove the salivary stone?

Leaving a salivary stone untreated can lead to persistent pain, infection, and gland damage. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for optimal outcomes.

3. Will I have a scar after surgery?

Minimally invasive sialendoscopy usually leaves no visible scars. In traditional surgery, any incisions are typically small and strategically placed to minimize scarring. Dr. Murthy prioritizes minimizing cosmetic concerns during the surgical process.

Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Sreenivasa Murthy T.M.

If you suspect salivary stones, contact Columbia Asia Referral Hospital to schedule a consultation with Dr. Sreenivasa Murthy T.M. With his expertise and compassionate care, you can find lasting relief from salivary stones and regain a comfortable eating experience.