Atrophy of Fungiform Papillae From Chorda‐Lingual Nerve Damage Following Surgical Extraction of Mandibular Molar Teeth

ABSTRACT Background During oral surgical procedures, critical neurological structures can be placed at significant risk of injury. Specifically, surgical third molar extractions of the mandible can result in iatrogenic chorda‐lingual nerve damage. Purpose In this manuscript, we expand on the limitations of the current literature and contribute a concise explanation for this phenomenon, in the hopes of providing contemporary oral surgeons with a clear diagnostic understanding of this oral manifestation. Methods and Results In this case series of three patients, we present an uncommon but crucial oral manifestation of iatrogenic neuropathy. During post‐operative consultations for surgical extraction of mandibular third molars, we observed atrophy of the fungiform papillae on the ipsilateral side of the tongue to the nerve injury. Our observations are supported by published animal and gustatory studies on the topic. Conclusion As part of informed consent, patients undergoing surgical extraction of mandibular molar teeth should be made aware of the risk for chorda‐lingual nerve injury, as well as the associated functional deficits. One presentation in support of the diagnosis for iatrogenic chorda‐lingual nerve damage includes site‐specific morphological changes of the affected tongue region.