Two basic types of acinar epithelial cells exist: Acini in the parotid glands are almost exclusively of the serous type, while those in the sublingual glands are predominantly mucous cells. In the submaxillary glands, it is common to observe acini composed of both serous and mucous epithelial cells. submaxillary (mandibular) glands-produce a mixed serous and mucous secretion. 2  sublingual glands-secrete a saliva that is predominantly mucous in character. 3  serous cells, which secrete a watery fluid, essentially devoid of mucus. 4  mucous cells, which produce a very mucus-rich secretion.
exploratory - serving in or intended for exploration or discovery; an exploratory operation; exploratory reconnaissance; digging an exploratory well in the Gulf of Mexico; exploratory talks between diplomats. explorative. nonexplorative, nonexploratory, unexplorative, unexploratory - not exploratory.
Purpose. Exploratory laparotomy is a method of abdominal exploration, a diagnostic tool that allows physicians to examine the abdominal organs. The procedure may be recommended for a patient who has abdominal pain of unknown origin or who has sustained an injury to the abdomen.uring exploratory laparotomy for cancer, a pelvic washing may be performed; sterile fluid is instilled into the abdominal cavity and washed around the abdominal organs, then withdrawn and analyzed for the presence of abnormal cells. This may indicate that a cancer has begun to spread (metastasize).