Mandibular Gland

The large ovoid mandibular gland is contained within a strong fibrous capsule that gives it form. This capsule, with its firm attachment, makes the gland easily palpable, in contrast to the adjacent mandibular lymph nodes, which "float" under exploring fingers. The gland has these relations: rostrally, the mandibular lymph nodes, sublingual gland, and masseter and digastric muscles; medially, the digastric muscle, external carotid artery, and medial retropharyngeal lymph node; and caudally, the muscles of the neck. Its capsule continues rostrally onto the compact part of the sublingual gland, to which it is firmly fused (see Fig. 11.14). The course of the mandibular duct is described with the sublingual gland.