Bilateral neurotrophic keratopathy complicating Vidian neurectomy

Abstract

Purpose: To present a case of bilateral neurotrophic keratopathy with miosis after bilateral Vidian neurectomy for vasomotor rhinitis.

Methods: Observational case report.

Results: A 68 year-old man presented with irritation and blurred vision in both eyes 2 weeks after bilateral Vidian neurectomy. Slit-lamp examination revealed a large epithelial defect, typical of neurotrophic keratopathy, in the inferior two-thirds of cornea in both eyes. Corneal sensitivity test with a Cochet-Bonnet anesthesiometer and electrical study of the blink reflex indicated bilateral trigeminal dysfunction. Both pupils were miotic, and tests with hydroxyamphetamine 1% and epinephrine 0.1% showed postganglionic sympathetic nerve damage. The corneal epithelial defects healed after 2 months of treatment with systemic prednisolone, vitamin B(12) and tarsorrhaphy.

Conclusion: Neurotrophic keratopathy associated with dry eye syndrome may be a serious complication of Vidian neurectomy.