Surgical management of oral mucocele: Experience with marsupialization

Oral mucoceles are a common and nagging problem. They are proposed to be a result of damage to the minor salivary gland structure, resulting in retention or extravasation of saliva which leads to these cystic lesions. The lesions may often resolve spontaneously but frequently recur, or even epithelialize over long periods of time. This study reports the results of surgical management of oral mucocele by marsupialization. Even though, a complete surgical removal is considered the treatment of choice for oral mucocele, it has associated disadvantages including a longer recovery period and potential for ductal damage, which can lead to scarring, recurrence, and development of further satellite lesions. As the study shows, marsupialization is a simple surgery which ensures faster healing, minimizes postoperative complications, and is associated with a minimal risk of recurrence or development of new lesions. Owing to the satisfactory response to marsupialization, it may be considered as first line therapy in the management of oral mucoceles.