Severe macroglossia after posterior fossa and craniofacial surgery in children

Massive swelling of the tongue can occur after posterior fossa and craniofacial surgery. Several hypotheses have been proposed to explain the occurrence of such severe postoperative macroglossia, but this phenomenon is still poorly understood. Severe postoperative macroglossia can be a life-threatening condition due to upper airway obstruction. Three cases of severe postoperative macroglossia that occurred after cervical spine, craniofacial, and posterior fossa surgical procedures are reported here.

Source: International Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery - January 1, 2018 Category: ENT & OMF Authors: J. Bouaoud, A. Joly, A. Picard, B. Thierry, E. Arnaud, S. James, I. Hennessy, B. McGarvey, P. Cairet, A. Vecchione, E. Vergnaud, C. Duracher, R.H. Khonsari Tags: Case Report Source Type: research