Case Report: Abducens Nerve Palsy

This article describes three incidents when inadvertent abducens nerve palsy secondary to a dental local anaesthetic occurred during removal an upper wisdom tooth, resulting in paresis of the lateral rectus muscle and diplopia. The patients were reassured and managed conservatively and there were no long ‐term complicationsDiscussionThe anatomical course of the abducens nerve from its origin to the lateral rectus muscle are discussed as well as potential mechanisms for the dental local anaesthetic to impact upon the nerve. Finally, following input from Opthalmology colleagues, recommendations for appropriate management are made to ensure a good outcome.

Source: Oral Surgery - February 28, 2020 Category: ENT & OMF Authors: Sami Stagnell, Samy Darwish, Ashish Patel, Patrick Steed Tags: CASE REPORT Source Type: research