Late sequelae of iatrogenic damage to chorda tympani nerve

Four and a half years following middle ear surgery involving damage to the chorda tympani nerve we conducted a follow-up study in 10 out of 14 patients in whom we had previously investigated gustatory and submandibular gland function, pre- and immediately postoperatively. Following transection of the chorda tympani nerve (5 patients) the secretory volume of the affected gland has risen again but is still lower than that of the healthy gland. The secretory volume of the latter is increased, possibly by compensatory hypertrophy. The still existing dysgeusia, not noticed by the patients, is occasionally slightly improved. After stretching of the chorda tympani nerve (5 patients) the function of the submandibular gland and taste perception on the involved side of the tongue are now nearly fully restored.