Abstract
The submandibular region is masked by the mandible and submandibular gland, thus making it difficult to grasp its lesions. The region often gives rise to inflammatory lymphadenopathy and, the ultrasonic diagnosis can be difficult sometimes. In the present study, we performed ultrasonography on the submandibular region of cases with known pathological diagnoses. Studies regarding ultrasonic diagnosis of (1) disease of the submandibular gland, (2) submandibular lymphnodes and (3) sialolith were carried out. This report reviews the problems and possible changes. A satisfactory accuracy rate of 82% was achieved for the diagnosis of disease of the submandibular gland. Percentage of accurate diagnosis of submandibular lymph node metastasis was considerably lower compared to other regions of the neck. Detection of sialolith in the warthin's duct was also low owing to the structure of the submandibular region. When ultrasonography was performed by pressuring the floor of the oral cavity, it was possible to observe the changes in the size, form, and position of the lesions. Thus, ultrasonography can be considered as a very effective diagnostic technique in that region.
