Neurosensory disturbances of the trigeminal nerve: a long-term follow-up of traumatic injuries

Abstract

Purpose: This study assesses the physical and psychosocial consequences of trigeminal nerve damage.

Material and methods: A questionnaire consisting of 33 questions, 30 of which had fixed alternatives, was mailed to 300 persons who had received compensation from a syndicate of several insurance companies (Konsortiet för Patientförsäkring) because of trigeminal nerve damage. One question with no alternative reply gave the respondents an opportunity to comment on their problems and to rate them on a visual analogue scale. The questionnaire was answered by 226 recipients, 72 men and 153 women.

Results: Most of the patients had sensory disturbances resulting from damage to the inferior alveolar nerve, the mental nerve, or the lingual nerve. More than 70% of the respondents complained about paresthesia. No fewer than one of five patients suffered from pain in the affected area. The altered sensation caused functional disturbances in speech and eating which, in turn, had social and psychological consequences.

Conclusions: This study shows that mainly women and older persons have the most severe discomfort after oral nerve damage.