Pleomorphic adenoma of the minor salivary glands of the palate.

A retrospective test was carried out on a sample of 11 patients, 8 women and 3 men, suffering from pleomorphic adenoma of the minor salivary glands of the palate. These sample patients were treated at the Department of Maxillofacial Surgery at the University of Rome "La Sapienza" between 1/1/90 and 31/12/95. Some diagnostic methodologies have been analysed, such as incisional biopsy and instrumental research (X-ray Orthopantomography and CT of the maxillofacial district with and without contrast medium in axial and coronal projections), surgical techniques for the removal of the neoformation and techniques for an immediate reconstruction. The surgical treatment foresaw, during the same operation, removal of the neoformation, reconstruction of the resulting defect and complete restoration of functions and aesthetics. The patients of the examined sample underwent a 5-year follow-up, based on clinical examinations and instrumental research. No immediate or delayed postoperative complications were evident, nor recurrence of the neoplasia. The purpose of this assignment is to compare the results that transpired from the retrospective test with those reported in the international bibliography.