Complications between ventral and lateral approach for mandibular and sublingual sialoadenectomy in dogs with sialocele.

OBJECTIVE: To compare complications of dogs treated with mandibular and sublingual sialoadenectomy for sialocele using a lateral (LAT) or ventral paramedian (VPM) approach. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective multicenter study. ANIMALS: Dogs (140) with mandibular and sublingual sialocele. METHODS: Medical records of dogs that underwent mandibular and sublingual sialoadenectomy through a LAT or VPM approach from 2004 to 2020 were reviewed. Clinical and histopathological findings were analyzed to compare the groups. RESULTS: Seventy dogs were included in each group. The most represented breed was crossbreed (26%), and males (99/140 [71%], intact/neutered) were overrepresented. Dogs in the VPM approach group were more likely to undergo digastricus tunnelization and placement of a drain or a bandage. Dogs in the LAT approach group were heavier and more likely to undergo excision of an inflammatory pseudocapsule. No difference was detected in complication rates between groups (LAT [20%], VPM [31%], P = .116). Recurrences were more likely after LAT approach (5/70 vs 0/70, respectively; P = .029), whereas wound-related complications were more likely after VPM approach (20/70 vs 9/70, respectively; P = .018). Prolonged duration of surgery was associated with an increased risk of recurrence, and none of the other variables affected the complication rate. CONCLUSION: Ventral paramedian approach for mandibular and sublingual sialoadenectomy was associated with a lower risk of recurrence but a higher risk of wound-related complications compared with LAT approach. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Ventral paramedian approach for mandibular and sublingual sialoadenectomy may be preferred to reduce recurrence in dogs with sialoceles, but wound-related complications are common.