Comparison between Partial versus Complete Excision of Sublingual Gland in Plunging Ranula Management (A Clinical Study)

Objective: To compare the postoperative complications of complete versus partial excision of the sublingual gland (SLG) in the management of plunging ranula.

Subject and Methods: A total of 24 patients were equally divided into two groups; Group A was treated with partial excision, while Group B was treated with Complete excision. . CT and MRI were used to diagnose the lesions. Postoperatively, complications like pain, hematoma, and temporary numbness of tongue, dysgeusia, dysphgia and recurrence were recorded.

Results: In both groups, males were in majority as compared to females. 10 males and 2 females, 9 males and 3 females were reported in Group A and B respectively. Mean age of patients in group A was 22.34±3.61, while in group B it was 21.25±3.55. Nearby 25% recurrence rate was found in patients treated with partial excision of SLG, while none of the patient reported with recurrence in complete excision group.

Conclusion: Complete excision of sublingual gland was found superior management modality as compared with partial excision in terms of postoperative recurrence.