Management of Traumatic Trigeminal and Facial Nerve Injuries

Abstract

In the area of craniomaxillofacial trauma, neurosensory disturbances are encountered commonly, especially with regard to the trigeminal and facial nerve systems. This article reviews the specific microanatomy of both cranial nerves V and VII, and evaluates contemporary neurosensory testing, current imaging modalities, and available nerve injury classification systems. In addition, the article proposes treatment paradigms for management of trigeminal and facial nerve injuries, specifically with regard to the craniomaxillofacial trauma setting.

Keywords: Cranial nerve injury; Facial nerve; Facial trauma; Injuries; Maxillofacial trauma; Nerve allograft; Nerve graft; Trigeminal nerve.