20/06/2026
An adult patient presented with severe jaw pain, restricted mouth opening following maxillofacial trauma. Clinical evaluation and computed tomography (CT) imaging confirmed right subcondylar fracture of the mandible. To manage the fracture without open surgery, the patient underwent closed reduction. Intermaxillary fixation (IMF) was successfully established using arch bars which successfully restored the patient’s pre-injury dental occlusion and stabilized the fracture site.
During the post-operative recovery period, the clinical course was complicated by the development of a progressively enlarging, fluctuant mass over the right cheek region. Diagnostic evaluation identified this collection as a sialocele, resulting from an unintended injury to the right parotid (Stensen’s) duct during the initial trauma. Fine-needle aspiration of the site confirmed the presence of clear, saliva-like fluid with significantly elevated amylase levels, distinguishing it from an abscess or hematoma.
To manage the salivary complication, a controlled percutaneous drain was inserted into the mass to continuously decompress the fluid collection and encourage the ductal tissue to heal. Concurrently, the patient was started on a course of empirical intravenous antibiotics to prevent the stagnant saliva from developing a secondary bacterial infection. This dual management strategy successfully resolved the swelling, allowed the tract to close, and preserved normal salivary function without disrupting the healing of the subcondylar fracture.
Following the removal of the drain and the completion of the antibiotic course, the patient made a full and uneventful recovery with complete restoration of jaw mobility and normal salivary flow. Highly satisfied with the seamless management of both the fracture and the unexpected complication, the patient expressed their gratitude by posting a highly positive and appreciative review on the clinic’s Google business page.
