What is the suggested treatment for a ranula?

The suggested treatment for a ranula is surgical excision, with occasional drainage. A ranula is a type of mucocele that forms on the floor of the mouth due to the accumulation of mucus from a ruptured salivary gland or duct. Surgical excision is preferred because it addresses the underlying cause by removing the cystic lesion entirely, thereby reducing the likelihood of recurrence.

Occasional drainage is sometimes necessary when the ranula is large or symptomatic, providing immediate relief of discomfort and preventing complications, but it does not solve the issue permanently. Therefore, surgical excision is the definitive treatment that ensures complete resolution of the condition.

While antibiotic treatment might be considered if there is an infection associated with the ranula, it does not address the primary issue of the mucus accumulation and would not be effective as a standalone treatment. Incision and drainage alone can provide temporary relief but often result in a high recurrence rate since the underlying pathology remains unchanged. Observation may be appropriate in cases where the ranula is asymptomatic and small, but it is not a recommended treatment for cases that cause discomfort or interfere with oral function.