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Transient isolated lingual nerve neuropraxia associated with general anaesthesia and laryngeal mask use: two case reports and a review of the literature.

Authors :
Foley E
Mc Dermott TE
Shanahan E
Phelan D
Source :
Irish journal of medical science [Ir J Med Sci] 2010 Jun; Vol. 179 (2), pp. 297-300. Date of Electronic Publication: 2009 May 13.
Publication Year :
2010

Abstract

Background: Transient, isolated lingual nerve neuropraxia is a rare complication following general anaesthesia. Reports implicate airway manipulation and we describe two new cases associated with laryngeal mask airway (LMA) and review the related English language literature.<br />Results: Unilateral numbness and loss of taste on the anterior tongue were the characteristic symptoms. Collation of literature data (median and range) with that from the new cases showed: patient age was 38 (20-61) years and female to male ratio was 1.2:1. Surgery time was 62.5 (20-150) min and symptom duration was 28 (7-120) days.<br />Conclusion: Lingual neuropraxias reported have been transient and patients can be advised, despite disturbing symptoms, that recovery is anticipated in about 1 month. Lingual neuropraxia reports are becoming more frequent, perhaps associated with increasing LMA use. Research is recommended as modification to LMA cuff volume, pressure and/or position within the oral cavity might ameliorate the entity.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
1863-4362
Volume :
179
Issue :
2
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
Irish journal of medical science
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
19437092
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11845-009-0347-z