Trigeminocardiac Reflex During Temporomandibular Joint Surgery: A Systematic Review and Update for the Surgeons

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) surgery is being increasingly performed globally with considerable success leading to improved quality of life for patients affected with disabling temporomandibular disorders. One of the most unusual phenomena noted during maxillofacial surgery due to stimulation of the trigeminal nerves is the Trigeminocardiac reflex (TCR), which causes sudden bradycardia and hypotension causing alarm and distress to the surgical and anesthetic team. The purpose of this systematic review is to identify the frequency and discuss the pathophysiology of the TCR especially during TMJ surgery.
Source: Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery - Category: ENT & OMF Authors: Tags: Anesthesia/TMJ Disorders/Facial Pain Source Type: research