[Retrospective evaluation of inferior alveolar nerve neuropathies after impacted third molar surgery with mandibular canal close position].

THE AIM OF THE STUDY

Was to reduce the risks of surgical trauma to the inferior alveolar nerve by considering individual topographic and anatomical features, improving diagnostic methods and techniques for removing impacted third molars with close location of the mandibular canal.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

An analysis of cases of postoperative paresthesia of the lower lip and teeth was conducted in patients with trauma to the inferior alveolar nerve after surgery to remove an impacted tooth in the long term.

RESULTS

The frequency of damage to the inferior alveolar nerve after removal of an impacted tooth with close location of the mandibular canal is 18.2%. After 3 months, restoration of the function of the damaged nerve is observed in 84%. Permanent paresthesia lasting a year or more was detected in 4 patients (1.4%).

CONCLUSION

The main causes of nerve trauma during surgery to remove an impacted tooth were identified. The longest periods of neuropathy of the inferior alveolar nerve were found in patients with nerve damage by a drill during root separation, with an interroot type of position of the mandibular canal; and with nerve damage by a sharp edge of a tooth with a combination of lingual location of the mandibular canal and a pronounced root anomaly in the form of hypercementosis and dilaceration.