**Core Concept:**
Recurrent ranulas are soft, cystic, submandibular salivary gland tumors that recur after surgical excision. They are caused by the persistence of ductal or ductal remnants of the Wharton's duct system.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right:**
The correct answer is **D**. The management of recurrent ranulas involves a more complete and meticulous surgical excision, often using a gland-sparing approach to preserve the submandibular gland. This helps to reduce the risk of damage to the salivary duct system and subsequent recurrence. This surgical procedure is known as modified Billroth I procedure or a submandibular gland excision with duct ligation and division.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
A) Incorrect option A (submandibular gland excision with duct ligation) does not address the ductal remnants, leading to high recurrence rates.
B) Incorrect option B (incisional drainage) does not excise the offending tissue and may result in recurrence.
C) Incorrect option C (incisional drainage with excision of the remnants) does not sufficiently remove the remnants and may lead to recurrence.

**Clinical Pearl:**
Recurrent ranulas are challenging to manage due to the intricate anatomy of the salivary duct system. A tailored surgical approach focusing on complete ductal excision and gland sparing is essential for optimal outcomes in managing recurrent ranulas.