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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

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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.

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.

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.

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Acknowledgments

We acknowledge Mr. G. McEntee for facilitating the report and the assistance and collaboration of Ms. C. Madden.

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Correspondence to E. Foley.

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Foley, E., Mc Dermott, T.E.D., Shanahan, E. et al. Transient isolated lingual nerve neuropraxia associated with general anaesthesia and laryngeal mask use: two case reports and a review of the literature. Ir J Med Sci 179, 297–300 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11845-009-0347-z

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11845-009-0347-z

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