Salivary glands : Imaging modalities overview

The following table serves as a streamlined guide for primary care clinicians to understand the various imaging modalities available for the diagnosis and management of salivary gland disorders. It outlines the key indications for each modality—elaborating on what each investigation entails—as well as their respective advantages and disadvantages. This concise format aims to facilitate quick, informed decision-making in a primary care setting.

Ultrasonography often serves as the first-line imaging modality due to its noninvasive and cost-effective nature but has limitations for deeper gland structures.

Sialography provides a detailed look at ductal anatomy but is generally not suitable for acute conditions due to its invasive nature.

Radionuclide imaging can quantify gland function but doesn't offer morphologic details.

CT and MRI scans are useful for complex issues but come with limitations like radiation exposure, contrast dye requirements, and cost.

Specialized techniques like Sialoendoscopy, Sonoelastography, and Shock-wave Lithotripsy are typically reserved for complex or refractory cases.

Decisions on further investigations would be taken by the specialists, this serves as an informative table of some of the available options.