Compression Neuropathy of the Hypoglossal Nerve Following Orotracheal Intubation: A case report

ABSTRACT

Hypoglossal nerve injury is an uncommon complication following endotracheal intubation. A transoral procedure including endotracheal intubation may result in hypoglossal nerve compression at the lateral margin on the hyoid bone and inner mandibular margin at the tongue base. A 50-year-old patient undergoing rotator cuff repair developed a transient unilateral postoperative hypoglossal nerve injury following uncomplicated endotracheal intubation for general anesthesia. The following day the patient complained of difficulty with tongue movement and buccal manipulation of food, and had slurred speech. An electrophysiologic assessment confirmed a diagnosis of unilateral hypoglossal nerve palsy. The symptoms resolved spontaneously and completely by 6 weeks. The possible etiology of the injury is discussed, and related literatures are reviewed.