An unusual complication of genioglossus advancement surgery

Genioglossus advancement is a surgical procedure where the base of the tongue is pulled forward, usually to increase airway size due to deformity or a sleep breathing disorder. In this procedure, a small bony window is made in the lower jaw. The piece of bone along with the attachment for the tongue is pulled forward and down, then fastened to the outside of the lower jaw. Here we report a 43 year old male patient which has admitted to our department with the complaints of the mild pain and swelling on the chin area.

The patient underwent a genioglossus advancement surgery 3 months ago. An ortopantomograph revealed a root fracture of the lower left canine. Under mandibular nerve block, the lower left canine was extracted and the root piece was removed via an endodontic K-file.

The healing period was uneventfull and no signs or symptoms of a pathology was detected.

Dental complications related to genioglossus advancement are rarely reported. However, the surgeons should be aware of damage the roots of the adjacent teeth, especially the lower canines.