Routinely, scintigraphy was taken in every patient without exception. Scintigraphy can help the operator to analyze and compare both salivary glands in terms of function. This information can enhance the success rate of sialocentesis. In this study, we had not taken scintigraphy after the procedure. That means other studies about comparing pre- and post-operative records are required. The post-operative records can indicate the clinical success of sialocentesis [2, 5].
In this study, selection and investigation were done between the radioiodine therapy-experienced group (4/99) and the non-radioiodine therapy-experienced group (95/99). Selection criteria of both groups were experience and non-existence of radioiodine therapy history. More detailed criteria can be applied in selecting patient groups, such as onset period and other medical histories [1, 3, 6].
The onset of xerostomia is a critical parameter of diagnosis. The period of discomfort-related experience shows how severe are the symptoms and illnesses. Moreover, treatment methods and guidelines could be changed upon the discomfort period of each patient. In this study, the onset of patient was omitted which means that further evaluation of each patient’s onset period is required [2].
General medical history is related to the diagnosis and treatment of xerostomia. In our clinic, 21/99 patients (21.2%) have hypertension and 14/99 patients (14.1%) have diabetes. Thyroid-related disease is in 15/99 patients (15.2%), and cancer is in 16/99 patients (16.2%). In terms of these results, more detailed studies about the correlation of these diseases with xerostomia are required. Radioactive therapy aimed at cancer patients is also known as the cause of dryness of the mouth and mucositis, which is a major complication [4].
Pre-operative scintigraphy was taken routinely for evaluating the saliva-secreting function of the major salivary gland of the patients. Due to the short study period, we did not take any post-operative sialographies. In the near future, we are planning to conduct post-operative scintigraphy and further studies comparing pre- and post-operative scintigraphy [9].
Sjogren’s syndrome was known as causing symptoms such as xerostomia and dry eye syndrome. Generally, an antibody screening test including factor SSA was routinely performed to diagnose Sjogren’s syndrome. If the syndrome exists, treatment goal can be changed from xerostomia. Steroid or antirheumatoidal drugs can be considered to relieve the discomfort of patients [3].
Due to few patients—four patients—were included in the study, this study was limited in terms of quantity. Larger range and quantity of patients should be included in further studies. Moreover, a week of the follow-up period was too short for accurate investigation. Longer follow-ups were required for monitoring patient’s event and conditions. In that period, post-operative scintigraphy can be taken [2, 8].
The effect of sialocentesis depends on the condition of the patients, but normally, it lasts for 6 months. There is a tendency that the salivary flow rate decreases just after the procedure. In this study, less than 1 more week follow-ups were taken. More detailed studies are required for evaluating the long-term efficacy of sialocentesis [10].