Wharton's duct
Pronunciation: WAHR-tonz dukt
The main excretory duct of the submandibular salivary gland, opening at the sublingual caruncle.
Full Definition
The primary drainage pathway for the submandibular salivary gland, running approximately 5-6 cm from the gland hilum to its opening beneath the tongue. Named after Thomas Wharton, this duct is clinically significant in oral and maxillofacial surgery as it is commonly affected by sialolithiasis due to its length, upward course, and the viscous nature of submandibular saliva. The duct can be accessed surgically through intraoral approaches for stone removal or stricture repair. Injury during oral surgery can result in salivary fistula formation.
Usage
Usage note: Capitalize 'Wharton's' as it is an eponym; distinguish from Stensen's duct (parotid drainage).
In Context
- "The sialolith was successfully removed through an intraoral approach to Wharton's duct." — operative report