Salivary glands ultrasound is a simple, quick and painless imaging exam used to assess the main salivary glands – the parotid, submandibular and sublingual glands. It uses high-frequency sound waves to obtain real-time images, without radiation, allowing a safe and effective evaluation of these structures.
What is a Salivary Glands Ultrasound and what is it for?
Salivary glands ultrasound is a non-invasive exam that allows assessment of the morphology and structure of the glands responsible for saliva production. It is often used as a first-line imaging exam in the investigation of gland enlargement, pain, inflammation or functional changes.
This exam helps the doctor distinguish between benign conditions and situations that require further investigation, guiding diagnosis and treatment more accurately.
How much is does a Salivary Glands Ultrasound cost?
The price of salivary glands ultrasound is €60 on a private basis. X-Clinic also has agreements with:
- ADSE (the patient only pays a co-payment of €7), ADM GNR, SAD PSP;
- Insurance companies: Médis, Multicare, Advance Care, Allianz, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, SS CGD, SAMS Quadros, SAMS, Montepio, RNA, Generali, Mudum, MGEN, Aegon, Vitória, Una Seguros, among others;
- Health plans: Medicare, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, Continente Wells, ACP, among others.
- Protocols: X-Clinic has agreements with several clinics and institutions that allow you to have the exam done at very competitive rates. In the case of a salivary glands ultrasound, the protocol price is €32.
The final price may vary depending on the healthcare system or insurance used.
How is it performed?
During the ultrasound, the patient lies on an examination table in a dimly lit room, making it easier to visualise the images on the screen.
The doctor applies a transparent gel to the neck and facial region, allowing proper transmission of sound waves. The probe is gently moved over the skin to assess the salivary glands in detail.
Images are viewed in real time and interpreted by an imaging specialist. The exam usually lasts between 15 and 30 minutes, depending on the glands being assessed.
What does it detect?
Salivary glands ultrasound can identify, among other conditions:
- Inflammation (sialadenitis);
- Salivary stones (sialolithiasis);
- Cysts;
- Benign or suspicious tumours;
- Gland enlargement;
- Structural changes associated with autoimmune diseases, such as Sjögren’s syndrome.
In which cases is it indicated?
This exam is commonly requested when there is:
- Persistent swelling or pain in the face or neck;
- Sensation of dry mouth or reduced saliva production;
- Suspected infection or inflammation of the salivary glands;
- Palpable nodules in the parotid or submandibular regions;
- Follow-up of previously diagnosed salivary gland conditions.
Preparing for a Salivary Glands Ultrasound
Salivary glands ultrasound does not require any specific preparation. However, to help the exam run more smoothly, it is recommended to:
- Remove accessories from the neck or facial area that may interfere with the exam (e.g. necklaces);
- Bring previous exams, such as ultrasounds, laboratory tests or medical reports, if available;
- Bring the exam referral, when applicable.
Where to have it done?
A salivary glands ultrasound can be performed at X-Clinic (Av. Eng. Duarte Pacheco, nº 26 – mezzanine floor, 1070-110 Lisbon) or at NRD (Avenida Columbano Bordalo Pinheiro, nº 11-B, ground floor, 1070-060 Lisbon – near Praça de Espanha).
