Abstract: Objective　Complete removal of submandibular gland including the tumor is the main operation method of benign submandibular gland tumors. This paper aims to establish a gland-preserving operation for benign tumors of the submandibular gland and evaluate its efficacy. Methods　 40 patients with benign submandibular gland tumors treated in our department from January 2007 to December 2008 were randomly divided into two groups: the gland was completely removed in one group and partially preserved in the other one.. Duration of operation, extent of injury to the nerve, postoperative function of the gland, aesthetic appearance, and recurrence of the two groups were assessed and compared. Results　 There was no significant difference in baseline characteristics among patients in two groups. The extents of injury to the nerve, together with deformities of the facial contour, were significantly less in the group in which the gland was preserved than in which the gland was completely removed. Postoperative gland secretive function and overall patients’ satisfaction were better in the former group. There was no recurrence in either group during the follow up period of 38 months–5 years. Conclusions　The gland-preserving procedure has advantages over the typical approach in which the gland is sacrificed. There is less risk of injury to the nerve, less deformity of the facial contour, and better preservation of gland function, and patients are more satisfied. The gland-preserving technique can therefore be the first choice for management of benign submandibular tumors.

Key words: Key words：　Submandibular gland, Gland-preserving surgery, Salivary gland function, Quality of life (QOL)