Accessory duct of submandibular gland

Abstract During routine dissection of the left submandibular region in an 85 year old female cadaver, we observed an accessory submandibular duct running parallel and inferior to the main duct. It arose from the medial surface of the deep part of the submandibular gland and opened on the floor of the mouth, medial to the sublingual papilla. Knowledge of these anatomical variations is useful during surgical procedures in the submandibular region.