The aim of the present study was to analyze and correlate anatomical features and the functional activity of healthy parotid glands using a sialographic technic. The anatomical study was performed in 55 subjects, from which 37 took part in the functional exam, which was to verify the elimination of the contrast substance, Lipiodol UF, in stimulated and non-stimulated glands. The results showed that the analysis of the sialographic image by the observation of the glandular duct system allowed the formation of 5 distinct anatomical groups. In the functional evaluation, stimulated glands presented more uniform and shorter periods of time to eliminate Lipiodol UF than non-stimulated. The correlation between the anatomical and functional findings was submitted to statistical treatment and the mean elimination time of the contrast substance in stimulated glands from Group I was significantly higher than that from Group II and III. The maximum time required for the emptying of stimulated glands was 5 minutes, in all groups, while non-stimulated glands did not present statistical difference between groups. Finally, it was concluded that the combined evaluation of the anatomical model and the excretory function of glands should be carried out with the use of a stimulus.
Sialography; Radiology; Parotid gland
