Two cases of isolated unilateral paralysis of hypoglossal nerve after uncomplicated orotracheal intubation

Acta Anaesthesiol Belg. 2009;60(3):191-3.

Abstract

We report two cases of postoperative unilateral hypoglossal nerve palsy following uncomplicated orotracheal intubation for plastic surgery. Both patients underwent a long procedure and were installed in a non physiological position. These two factors might have played an important role in the mechanism of nerve damage. Furthermore, other etiologies of neurological injury like a difficult airway or anatomical anomalies were not present. The aim of these two case reports is to sensitize the anesthetists to hypoglossal nerve palsy and to highlight a potential clinical problem of positioning during plastic surgery.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anesthesia, General
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hypoglossal Nerve Diseases / etiology*
  • Intubation, Intratracheal / adverse effects*
  • Mammaplasty
  • Middle Aged
  • Paralysis / etiology*
  • Postoperative Complications / etiology*
  • Recovery of Function
  • Surgery, Plastic