Reconstruction of the Infraorbital Nerve Using Bilayered Artificial Nerve Conduits after Partial Maxillectomy.

Abstract

Facial sensory nerves play vital roles in daily functions like self-protection, facial expressions, speaking, and eating. Severing the infraorbital nerve (ION) during partial maxillectomy via the Weber-Ferguson incision can lead to sensory disturbances. This study presents immediate ION reconstruction using artificial nerve conduits and its short-term outcomes. This retrospective study included three patients (mean age: 67.0 years) undergoing immediate ION reconstruction after partial maxillectomy via the Weber-Ferguson incision. Sensory recovery was evaluated using the Semmes-Weinstein and two-point discrimination (2PD) tests. A reference group of five patients who underwent total maxillectomy without ION reconstruction was also assessed. No postoperative complications were observed during the 15.3-month follow-up. Sensory recovery varied among patients, with one achieving normal perception at 24 months, another showing diminished light touch at 13 months, and the third experiencing diminished protective sensation at 7 months postoperatively. In comparison, the reference group showed lower sensory recovery. Two patients showed improvements in 2PD test results at 24 and 13 months, whereas one showed no recovery at 7 months. No patients in the reference group showed improvement. Immediate ION reconstruction using artificial nerve conduits after partial maxillectomy appears feasible, as evidenced by acceptable sensory recovery in the short term.