Therapeutic approaches for oral mucocele: A systematic review of the literature
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17795416Keywords:
Mucocele, Therapeutics, Surgery, oral, Systematic review, Salivary glandsAbstract
Introduction: Mucocele is a frequent benign lesion of the oral cavity characterized by saliva accumulation due to rupture or obstruction of a minor salivary duct. Although often asymptomatic, persistence may interfere with mastication and speech, requiring therapeutic intervention.
Objective: To determine and compare treatment modalities available for oral mucocele, assessing efficacy and clinical advantages.
Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted in PubMed and SciELO covering the last 15 years. Human studies (case reports, clinical trials and reviews) addressing therapeutic techniques were included. After inclusion/exclusion criteria, 24 articles were selected and analyzed.
Results: Identified options include conventional surgical excision, laser therapy (CO2 and diode), micromarsupialization, cryosurgery and sclerotherapy. Surgical excision with removal of adjacent glands remains the gold standard to minimize recurrence. Minimally invasive techniques such as laser and micromarsupialization were effective alternatives, especially in pediatric patients, with less bleeding and better postoperative course.
Conclusions: A wide spectrum of effective mucocele treatments exists. Technique choice should be individualized considering patient age, lesion size and cooperation, prioritizing complete removal of the affected gland for long-term success.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Pamela Monserrat Alonso Arce, Ana Mendieta Espínola, Nora Rivas Torres (Autor/a)
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