[Modern concepts for the diagnosis and therapy of sialolithiasis].

Sialoliths are the underlying cause of salivary gland obstructive disease in 60%-70% of cases. Modern minimally invasive techniques have enabled accurate diagnosis and findings-specific therapy with the aim of full gland-function preservation. This article provides an overview of the current diagnostic measures for and therapy of sialolithaisis. Ultrasound is the investigation of first choice and is able to recognize stones in well over 90% of cases. Sialendoscopy is a directly visualizing technique which is superior to all other diagnostic measures for the assessment of pathologic changes in the salivary duct system and the detection of stones. Treatment was significantly improved with the introduction of extracorporal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), sialographic-controlled techniques, surgical procedures of the duct system and in particular by interventional sialendoscopy. Interventional sialendoscopy, especially when combined with other treatment modalities, has a success rate of 85%-95%. Cases which respond poorly to therapy can be treated successfully with the endoscopic transcutaneous approach in about 90% of cases. When sialendoscopy is performed in combination with other minimally invasive treatment options the gland can be preserved in 95%-98% of all cases.