Pleomorphic Adenoma of a Minor Salivary Gland of the Hard Palate Complicated by Surgical Site Infection: A Case Report.

BACKGROUND: Pleomorphic adenoma is the most common benign salivary gland tumor of the head and neck, predominantly affecting the parotid gland. Although minor salivary gland tumors are less common, the palate is a notable site, while involvement of the hard palate remains relatively rare. Complete surgical excision is the mainstay of treatment, with postoperative wound care or reconstruction tailored to the resulting defect. Although postoperative infection following oral surgery is uncommon, the risk increases with extensive tissue manipulation, flap elevation, bone exposure, or use of foreign materials and surgical packing. Infection associated with intraoral packing after excision of a palatal pleomorphic adenoma is exceptionally rare and may present challenges in postoperative management, highlighting the need for early recognition and a structured, evidence-informed approach to treatment. CASE PRESENTATION: We describe a case of a 29-year-old Ankole male who presented with a painless swelling in the oral cavity that had slowly increased in size over three years. Clinical and radiological evaluations suggested a benign tumor arising from the palatal salivary glands. Surgical excision was performed, and absorbable intraoral packing was placed in the surgical wound. The histopathological examination provided the diagnosis of pleomorphic adenoma. On the fifth day after surgery, the patient developed clinical signs of surgical site infection. The packing was removed, wound care was continued, and antimicrobial treatment was administered. His condition improved progressively, and complete wound healing was achieved after three weeks of daily dressing. CONCLUSION: This report presents an uncommon postoperative complication following excision of pleomorphic adenoma of a minor salivary gland of the hard palate. Infection of intraoral packing complicated the early postoperative course, but removal of the infected material, antibiotics, and regular local wound care led to satisfactory recovery. The case underlines the importance of close postoperative follow-up.