Injury of trigeminal nerve, right side digital illustration

Injury of trigeminal nerve, right side Save


ICD-10 code: S04.31

Chapter: Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes

Injury of trigeminal nerve, right side: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

The trigeminal nerve is one of the major nerves responsible for sensation in the face. It has three branches, each of which provides sensation to different parts of the face. Injury to this nerve can cause significant pain and discomfort, particularly if it occurs on the right side of the face.

Causes of Injury
  1. Physical trauma: Blunt force trauma to the face, such as a car accident or a fall, can cause injury to the trigeminal nerve.
  2. Surgical trauma: Certain surgical procedures, such as dental implants or wisdom tooth extraction, can result in injury to the trigeminal nerve.
  3. Tumor: A tumor in the area surrounding the trigeminal nerve can put pressure on the nerve and cause injury.
Symptoms

The symptoms of trigeminal nerve injury can vary depending on the severity of the injury. However, common symptoms include:

  • Severe pain in the face, particularly on the right side
  • Numbness or tingling in the face
  • Difficulty chewing or swallowing
  • Loss of sensation in the face
Treatment

Treatment for injury to the trigeminal nerve will depend on the severity of the injury and the underlying cause. In mild cases, pain relief medication may be sufficient to manage the symptoms. However, in more severe cases, surgery may be required.

Surgical options may include:

  1. Microvascular decompression: This surgery involves removing any blood vessels that are putting pressure on the nerve.
  2. Rhizotomy: In this procedure, the nerve is cut to prevent pain signals from being transmitted to the brain.
  3. Neurectomy: This surgery involves removing a portion of the nerve itself.

It’s important to note that injury to the trigeminal nerve can be a serious condition that requires prompt medical attention. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, it’s important to consult with a medical professional as soon as possible.

Overall, injury to the trigeminal nerve on the right side of the face can be a painful and uncomfortable condition. However, with proper treatment, many patients are able to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.