Chemical involution of the equine parotid salivary gland.

This research investigated how effective various chemical agents were at eliminating secretions from the parotid salivary gland in horses. It found that all agents were effective but some caused more damage than others.

Study Design and Methodology

• The study was carried out on 10 horses to assess the effectiveness of various chemical solutions in eliminating parotid salivary secretions.
• The solutions used included 10% formalin, 2% chlorhexidine, or 2% or 3% silver nitrate.
• These solutions were infused retrograde (or in reverse flow) into the parotid salivary gland for a period of 90 seconds and then allowed to drain.
• The infusion process was done through parotid duct cannulae, a tube used to pass the chemicals into the gland.
• Post-infusion, the severed parotid ducts and surgical incisions used for the process were left to heal by what is called “second intention”. This means healing occurred naturally without surgical closure.

Findings of the study

• All the chemical agents used were successful in eliminating the glandular secretions from the parotid salivary gland.
• However, there were varying levels of necrosis (cell death) and suppurative inflammation (inflammation with pus) associated with different agents.
• The formalin solution caused less necrosis and inflammation compared to the other solutions.
• On the other hand, the silver nitrate solutions resulted in the most cell death and inflammation. This held true for both 2% and 3% concentrations.

Implications of the Research

• This study provides valuable insights on the best chemical agent to use for the removal of glandular secretions.
• While all agents were effective, using formalin may be a more suitable choice due to less associated necrosis and inflammation.
• The study propounds the need for further research on the long-term effects and potential complications of using these chemical agents.
• Overall, this knowledge could aid in refining veterinary surgical procedures and treatment protocols.