Salivary Gland Enlargement During Induction of Anesthesia

Abstract

A case of massive enlargement of the salivary glands occurred in association with the induction of anesthesia. An overactive pharyngeal reflex, stimulated by endotracheal intubation, probably caused vasodilatation and hyperemia of the glands. Treatment with succinylcholine chloride may also have contributed to this effect. In such cases, the adenopathy may subside rapidly. If it does not, the endotracheal tube should be removed and the operative procedure terminated. Tracheostomy should be considered if patency of the airway is uncertain.