26/01/2025
Ranula
A ranula is a type of mucocele (mucus-containing cystic lesion) that occurs on the floor of the mouth, typically in the midline. Here are some key facts about ranulas:
# Causes
1. Obstruction of the sublingual gland or duct
2. Trauma or injury to the floor of the mouth
3. Infection or inflammation of the sublingual gland
# Symptoms
1. Painless, smooth, and translucent swelling on the floor of the mouth
2. May cause discomfort or difficulty speaking, eating, or swallowing
3. Typically occurs in children and young adults
# Types
1. *Simple ranula*: Occurs in the superficial layers of the oral mucosa
2. *Deep ranula*: Occurs in the deeper layers of the oral mucosa or in the sublingual gland
3. *Plunging ranula*: Extends into the neck through the mylohyoid muscle
# Treatment
1. *Observation*: Small, asymptomatic ranulas may not require treatment
2. *Needle aspiration*: Draining the ranula with a needle
3. *Marsupialization*: Creating a surgical opening to drain the ranula
4. *Surgical excision*: Removing the ranula and affected sublingual gland tissue
# Complications
1. Recurrence
2. Infection
3. Scarring
4. Salivary gland dysfunction
# Diagnosis
1. Clinical examination
2. Imaging studies (e.g., ultrasound, CT, or MRI)
3. Biopsy or histopathological examination
Dentist Point & Maxillofacial Surgery
