Unilateral Hypoglossus Nerve Palsy Following Intubation

Abstract

ABSTRACT Some neurological diseases, malignant tumors, trauma and surgery might cause hypoglossal nerve palsy. However XIIth nerve palsy following intubation is unusual. A 40 year-old woman underwent surgery for nasal and right phalangeal fractures. The patient had a left hypoglossal nerve palsy which was detected on the first postoperative day. Her neurological and otorhinolaryngological evaluation showed no other pathology. The palsy resolved completely in the 6th postoperative week. Post-intubation hypoglossal nerve palsy is very rare. Appropriate cuff pressure, uneventful oro-tracheal intubation, and avoiding malpositioning of the head during surgery are of considerable importance in avoiding this complication. A meticulous neurologic and otorhinolaryngologic evaluation and follow-up of these patients is critical. The majority of cases recover without sequela.