Outcome of marsupialisation for the management of isolated sublingual sialocoeles in dogs: nine cases (2009-2023).

Introduction: The widespread consensus for the management of isolated sublingual sialocoeles (ranulas) is to perform mandibular and sublingual sialoadenectomy, despite limited evidence to support this recommendation over ranula marsupialisation alone.

Objectives: To describe the outcomes and complications associated with marsupialisation alone for the management of isolated ranulas in dogs.

Materials and methods: Retrospective case series. Electronic records of five veterinary referral hospitals and one peripatetic ECVS diplomate were searched between January 2009 and May 2023 for dogs that underwent partial resection and marsupialisation alone for management of isolated ranulas performed by, or under the supervision of, a specialist veterinary surgeon. Data collected included signalment, presenting clinical signs, diagnostic investigations, surgery report, intra- and postoperative complications and outcome via referral institution records or telephone questionnaire to the referring veterinary practice or owner.

Results: Nine dogs were included in the study. No intra-operative complications were reported, vomiting was reported in one dog within 14 days postoperatively. Median duration of hospitalisation was 0 days (range 0 to 2). Recurrence was reported in three of nine dogs (33.3%) with sufficient follow up reported at a median of 20 days (range 14 to 59) postoperatively. Two of these cases subsequently resolved following ipsilateral mandibular and sublingual sialoadenectomy, and one spontaneously resolved without further intervention.

Clinical significance: Ranula partial resection and marsupialisation alone for the management of isolated ranulas is a simple procedure associated with low complications and frequent clinical resolution. Additionally, it does not preclude future sialoadenectomy, if required, and should be considered a first-line option for isolated ranulas.