CPT® Code 42507

A bilateral parotid duct diversion, commonly known as a Wilke procedure, is a surgical intervention aimed at addressing excessive salivation, medically referred to as sialorrhea. This condition often leads to uncontrolled drooling, which can significantly impact a patient's quality of life. Sialorrhea is frequently associated with neurological deficits, such as those seen in individuals with cerebral palsy or following a head injury. The procedure involves the manipulation of the parotid ducts, which are responsible for transporting saliva from the parotid glands, one of the three major paired salivary glands in the human body, alongside the submandibular and sublingual glands. During the Wilke procedure, the parotid ducts are meticulously dissected from the surrounding tissue while preserving a cuff of mucosa. This careful dissection is crucial for the subsequent steps, where each duct is transposed to the tonsillar fossae and secured in place with sutures. This diversion effectively reduces the flow of saliva into the oral cavity, thereby alleviating the symptoms of sialorrhea and improving the patient's overall comfort and social interactions.