Transitory paresis of the lateral pterygoid muscle during a posterior superior alveolar nerve block--a case report

Gen Dent. 2007 Nov-Dec;55(6):532-6.

Abstract

The posterior superior alveolar nerve (PSAN) is a major sensory branch of the maxillary division of the trigeminal nerve. A PSAN block is a dental nerve block used for profound anesthesia of the maxillary molars. Complications arising from the PSAN block include hematoma formation, transient diplopia, blurred vision, and temporary blindness. This article presents a case of temporary paresis in the lateral pterygoid muscle following a PSAN block that utilized a 27-gauge long needle. The anatomical parameters and pathogenesis of such a complication are reviewed.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anesthetics, Local / adverse effects
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lidocaine / adverse effects
  • Maxillary Nerve / drug effects*
  • Nerve Block / adverse effects*
  • Paresis / chemically induced*
  • Pterygoid Muscles / drug effects*
  • Pterygoid Muscles / innervation
  • Pterygoid Muscles / physiopathology

Substances

  • Anesthetics, Local
  • Lidocaine