2. Definition
Infection of the submandibular space
Submandibular space lies between the mucous
membrane of floor of mouth and tongue on one
side and superficial layer of deep cervical fascia
extending between the hyoid bone and mandible
on the other.
It is divided into 2 compartments –
Sublingual compartment
Submaxillary and submental compartment
3.
4. Etiology
Dental infections – Accounts for 80% cases. Roots
of premolars cause sublingual space infection
while roots of molar teeth causes submaxillary
space infection.
Submandibular sialadenitis
Injuries to oral mucosa
Fractures of the mandible
7. Clinical Features
Marked difficulty in swallowing (odynophagia)
Trismus
Infection localized to sublingual space –
structures in floor of the mouth are swollen and
tongue seems to be pushed back
Infection spreads to submaxillary space -
submental and submandibular regions become
swollen and tender and gives a woody feel
Laryngeal edema may occur
8.
9. Treatment
Systemic antibiotics
Incision and drainage
of the abscess
Intraoral – Infection
is localized to
sublingual space
External – Infection
involves
submaxillary space
Tracheostomy, if
airway is endangered
10. Complications
Spread of infection to parapharyngeal and
retropharyngeal spaces and hence to the
mediastinum
Airway obstruction due to laryngeal edema
Septicaemia
Aspiration pneumonia