Published online Dec 16, 2021. doi: 10.12998/wjcc.v9.i35.11095
Peer-review started: July 9, 2021
First decision: July 26, 2021
Revised: August 7, 2021
Accepted: October 27, 2021
Article in press: October 27, 2021
Published online: December 16, 2021
Processing time: 153 Days and 15 Hours
Lingual nerve injury (LNI) is a rare complication following the use of laryngeal mask airway (LMA). The occurrence of this unexpected complication causes uncomfortable symptoms in patients and worsens their quality of life. We present an unusual case of LNI caused by the use of an LMA in percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL).
A 49-year-old man presented to our hospital with a 3-year history of intermittent left lower back pain. Abdominal computed tomography showed a 25 mm × 20 mm stone in the left renal pelvis. PCNL surgery using LMA was performed to remove the renal stone. The patient reported numbness on the tip of his tongue after the operation, but there were no signs of swelling or trauma. The patient was diagnosed with LNI after other possible causes were ruled out. The symptom of numbness eventually improved after conservative medical therapy for 1 wk. The patient completely recovered 3 wk after surgery.
This is the first case report describing LNI with the use of LMA in PCNL. In our case, an inappropriate LMA size, intraoperative movement, and a specific surgical position might be potential causes of this rare complication.
Core Tip: This is the case report of a 49-year-old male patient who reported numbness on the tip of his tongue after a percutaneous nephrolithotomy surgery. A diagnosis of lingual nerve injury caused by laryngeal mask airway (LMA) was made after ruling out other possible causes. The occurrence of this rare complication may be associated with several factors, such as inappropriate LMA size, intraoperative movement, and special surgical position. The patient completely recovered after 3 wk of conservative medical therapy.