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Aberrant reinnervation following hypoglossal nerve damage
J R Wilson1, A J Sumner, J Eichelman
1Louisiana State University Medical Center, Department of Neurology, New Orleans 70112.
Muscle & Nerve
|August 1, 1994
Summary
Hypoglossal nerve damage from neck surgery can lead to severe speech and swallowing issues due to aberrant reinnervation. This previously unrecognized complication affects tongue muscle coordination, causing significant disability.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Surgical Complications
Background:
- Hypoglossal nerve damage is a known complication of carotid endarterectomy, affecting about 5% of patients.
- Most patients recover without significant functional disability despite tongue hemiplegia.
Observation:
- Two patients developed severe dysarthria and dysphagia months after neck surgery involving hypoglossal nerve section.
- Electromyography (EMG) showed abnormal genioglossus and styloglossus muscle coactivation on the affected side.
Findings:
- Aberrant reinnervation, previously recognized in facial nerve injury, is now identified as a complication of hypoglossal nerve injury.
- This aberrant reinnervation disrupts coordinated tongue movement, leading to functional deficits.
Implications:
- This finding highlights a new cause of significant disability after neck surgery.
- Understanding aberrant reinnervation is crucial for managing hypoglossal nerve injuries and improving patient outcomes.