Ultrasound-guided botulinum toxin injection into the submandibular glands
Botulinum toxin injection into the salivary glands in Casablanca
This injection aims to reduce excess saliva (sialorrhea), which is common in some neurological diseases. Guided by ultrasound, botulinum toxin is placed in the submandibular glands, located under the jaw, on a specialist's prescription. Ultrasound shows the gland and makes it possible to place the product precisely, without X-rays. The effect is not immediate and remains temporary: the procedure can be repeated as advised by the specialist.
Duration, report and equipment
Duration
Allow generally 10 to 20 minutes for all the injections.
Report turnaround
Report within 24 hours. In an emergency, during opening hours, the report is handed over immediately.
Contact the center
This exam is booked by phone or WhatsApp.
When is this exam needed?
- Bothersome drooling related to a neurological disease (Parkinson's disease, after-effects of a stroke, cerebral palsy).
- Persistent excess saliva despite other treatments.
- Request from a neurologist, an ENT specialist or a rehabilitation physician.
- Saliva going down the wrong way or coughing caused by saliva, as advised by the specialist.
- Repeat of a previous injection, when its effect wears off.
How the exam is done
The radiologist first checks the specialist's prescription and, where applicable, the reports of previous injections. Sitting or lying down, with your head turned slightly, you stay still. The radiologist locates the gland on ultrasound, disinfects the skin and then injects the toxin with a fine needle, at one or more points.
The needle pricks are brief; a child can stay with a parent. The procedure is then repeated on the other side if the prescription calls for it. A small dressing may be applied, then you leave with instructions on what to watch for. The reduction in saliva is not visible right away: it develops over the following days.
Preparation
- Tell us when you book about any anticoagulant or antiplatelet medication. Never stop it on your own: the radiologist will tell you whether it needs to be adjusted, together with the doctor who prescribed it. Also tell us about any antibiotics taken recently.
- A blood clotting test may be requested depending on your treatment.
- For a child or a dependent person, come with the usual caregiver, who helps keep the position.
- Note the current discomfort (drooling, coughing, clothes to change) to help the specialist judge the effect.
Fasting
No fasting in general: if your procedure requires it, the team will tell you when you book.
Contrast injection
Only botulinum toxin is injected, without contrast agent.
Contraindications and precautions
- Myasthenia gravis or another disease of the junction between nerve and muscle.
- Known allergy to botulinum toxin.
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding: the injection is generally avoided.
- Infection of the skin or the gland.
- Swallowing problems that are already significant: tell the specialist and the radiologist.
Documents to bring
- Prescription and letter from the specialist
- Reports of previous injections, if any
- List of your medications
- Insurance or mutual insurance fund card
Price and insurance coverage
The center accepts coverage from insurance companies and the main mutual insurance funds. You submit the coverage request to your insurer or fund yourself. For AtlantaSanad and Sanlam, the center takes care of it.
No prices are shown on this site: Kenza gives you the exact price on WhatsApp, along with the coverage procedure for your situation.
Frequently asked questions
When does the effect appear?
It sets in gradually after a few days. Its strength and duration vary from person to person; your specialist assesses the result with you.
Will the injection need to be repeated?
The action of the toxin is temporary. Your specialist decides, based on the result and your discomfort, whether the procedure should be repeated.
What side effects are possible?
Dry mouth, thick saliva or a small bruise. Go to the emergency department if you have difficulty breathing or swallowing. See a doctor if you have a fever or difficulty chewing.
Do I need to give my consent?
Yes. The radiologist explains the procedure and its risks to you, or to your legal representative, then obtains consent.
Does the injection into the salivary glands hurt?
The needle is fine and the pricks are brief: most patients feel temporary discomfort. A child can keep a parent by their side for reassurance.