Quality of life outcome analysis in patients undergoing submandibular duct repositioning surgery for sialorrhoea

Abstract

Bilateral submandibular duct transposition is one of several surgical methods described to control sialorrhoea in the paediatric patient. The purpose of this study is to assess the effect of submandibular duct repositioning surgery on the quality of life of children using the Glasgow Benefit Inventory outcome measure. Consecutive children who underwent submandibular duct repositioning surgery were invited to participate in the study. The parents or guardians of children who gave consent were interviewed. The carer's opinion of the change in salivation, responses to the items in the Glasgow Benefit Inventory score and report of the complications were recorded.Nine children aged two and a half to 16 years were studied. The mean follow-up time was four years. The mean Glasgow Benefit Inventory score of +33 related to the procedure demonstrates that submandibular duct repositioning leads to a substantial measurable improvement in the quality of life (QoL) of the drooling child.