K11: Diseases of salivary glands

K11.4: Fistula of salivary gland

The salivary glands produce saliva and transport it to the mouth. In all, there are 6 large salivary glands. The two parotid glands are located in front of the left and right ear. The two submandibular glands are located to the left and right at the back of the lower jaw. The two sublingual glands are located to the left and right beneath the tongue.

The salivary glands usually guide the saliva to the mouth through particular channels. Additional conduits can develop from the saliva glands to the mouth or even through the skin to outside. Additional conduits may be present from birth. Additional conduits can also develop as a result of injury or an inflammation.