Headset-related sensory and motor neuropathies in image-guided sinus surgery

Complications related to the use of image-guided systems in sinus surgery are fortunately rare. We report a case series of 6 patients who experienced facial neuropathies (both sensory and motor) related to the use of a headset for electromagnetic-based image-guided surgery. The auriculotemporal nerve was the most common sensory nerve involved, and the buccal branch of the facial nerve was implicated in a case of motor weakness. The cause of the complication appears to be a pressure neuropathy caused by a tight-fitting headset against the external auditory meatus and temporomandibular joint. Additional risk factors for headset-related neuropathy may relate to body habitus, length of surgical procedure, and patient positioning. All patients' neuropathies resolved completely without intervention. Headset-related complications appear to be uncommon but may be an important consideration in counseling patients who are candidates for image-guided sinus surgery.