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Transient nerve damage following intubation for trans-sphenoidal hypophysectomy.
K A Evers1, G B Eindhoven, J M Wierda
1Department of Anesthesiology, University Hospital Groningen, The Netherlands. K.A.Evers@anest.azg.nl
Canadian Journal of Anaesthesia = Journal Canadien D'Anesthesie
|December 23, 1999
Summary
Transient nerve damage, including lingual and hypoglossal nerves, can occur after trans-sphenoidal hypophysectomy. This rare complication in an acromegalic patient resolved with therapy.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Anesthesiology
- Neurology
Background:
- Trans-sphenoidal hypophysectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the pituitary gland.
- Acromegaly is a hormonal disorder causing excessive growth due to high growth hormone levels.
Observation:
- A patient with acromegaly developed transient lingual and hypoglossal nerve damage post-intubation for surgery.
- Symptoms included tongue numbness, swelling, difficulty with movement, speech, and swallowing, along with taste loss.
Findings:
- Diagnosis of left lingual and hypoglossal nerve damage was confirmed by neurology.
- Symptoms resolved after four months of intensive physiotherapy and speech therapy.
Implications:
- This case highlights a rare complication of intubation during trans-sphenoidal surgery.
- Potential causes include forceful laryngoscopy, head hyperextension, and tightly packed throat packs, leading to nerve injury.