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Updated: Aug 8, 2026
04:06
Minimally Invasive Surgical Decompression of Occipital Nerves
Published on: September 13, 2024
Transient diplopia following maxillary local anesthetic injection
Kelly R Magliocca1, Neil C Kessel, Gerald W Cortright
1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University of Michigan School of Dentistry, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA. cottrk@hotmail.com
Summary
Transient lateral rectus paresis occurred in a patient after dental local anesthetic injection. Symptoms resolved within 3 hours, highlighting a rare but temporary complication.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Dentistry
- Neurology
Background:
- Local anesthetic administration for dental procedures can rarely cause neurological complications.
- Understanding the anatomical proximity of nerves to the maxillary region is crucial for preventing adverse events.
Observation:
- A 36-year-old female experienced diplopia and left lateral rectus muscle weakness immediately after receiving local anesthesia for a left maxillary second molar extraction.
- The patient's symptoms, including double vision and eye muscle paralysis, were temporary.
Findings:
- The observed lateral rectus paresis resolved completely within 3 hours post-administration.
- This case highlights a rare, transient neurological side effect of dental local anesthesia.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering potential neurological complications, even if rare, following dental anesthesia.
- Reviewing anatomical pathways can aid in understanding and potentially preventing such occurrences in clinical practice.
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