JAPANESE JOURNAL OF ORAL & MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY

Vol. 54 No. 2                     2008

ISSN: 0021-5163      UBIC: 151-J

ABSTRACT

Extraction of the lower third molars is a common procedure in oral surgery. After the procedure, disturbance of the lingual nerve is rare. In patients with mild injury, conservative treatment with drugs and stellate ganglion block may relieve symptoms. However, in severe cases, microsurgical treatment of the injured lingual nerve should be perfomed as soon as possible. We operated microsurgically in 3 patients with lingual nerve disorders that occurred after mandibular third molar extraction. After de operation, senses other than taste recovered in all patients, and taste was improved in 2 of the 3 patients. After the operation, 2 patients were satisfied, and the other was almost satisfied. No patient was dissatisfied. The concept for the management of such an iatrogenic lingual nerve injury remains unclear. In addition, we discuss treatment planning for iatrogenic lingual nerve injury. Key words: lower third molar extraction, lingual nerve, iatrogenic injury, microsurgery.

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