Iatrogenic Glossopharyngeal Neuropathy in Aesthetic Practice: A Case Report

Abstract

Summary: Iatrogenic glossopharyngeal nerve injuries are commonly associated with procedures such as a tonsillectomy, carotid endarterectomy, and endotracheal intubation. We present a previously unreported complication of a thread lift procedure in the jowl region, causing damage to the glossopharyngeal nerve through compression. The glossopharyngeal nerve belongs to the bulbar group of the cranial nerves. It is connected with the vagus and, therefore, is closely associated with the latter functionally and anatomically. Damage to the former may present with cardiovascular complications associated with the vagus nerve. The presented case demonstrates the diagnostic and treatment aspects of iatrogenic injury to the glossopharyngeal nerve.

Hypoglossal and Glossopharyngeal Nerve Palsy After Anterior Cervical Decompression and Fusion

“…The glossopharyngeal nerve innervates the stylopharyngeus muscle, which elevates the larynx and opens the upper esophageal sphincter 17 . Postoperative glossopharyngeal palsy is rare and has been described after various surgical procedures, including carotid endarterectomy, tonsillectomy, and oropharyngeal intubation 4,[18][19][20] . To our knowledge, glossopharyngeal palsy has not been described in the context of cervical spine surgery.…”