Distribution of the hypoglossal nerve at the base of the tongue and its clinical importance in radiofrequency ablation therapy
Turkish Journal of Medical Sciences, cilt.44, sa.3, ss.427-431, 2014 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus, TRDizin)
- Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
- Cilt numarası: 44 Sayı: 3
- Basım Tarihi: 2014
- Doi Numarası: 10.3906/sag-1301-63
- Dergi Adı: Turkish Journal of Medical Sciences
- Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, TR DİZİN (ULAKBİM)
- Sayfa Sayıları: ss.427-431
- Anahtar Kelimeler: Hypoglossal nerve, radiofrequency ablation, tongue, snoring, obstructive sleep apnea
- Sağlık Bilimleri Üniversitesi Adresli: Hayır
Özet
Aim: To identify the course of the hypoglossal nerve at the base of tongue and to determine a safe area for the placement of radiofrequency ablation therapy (RAT) probes to protect the nerve trunk from any damage. Materials and methods: Anatomical structures located at the base of the tongue were investigated in 10 cadaveric human half-heads. On the base of our landmarks, which are clinically important sign points, measurements were made. Results: The safe area was found to be: in the transverse plane, the 1/2 medial part of the half-tongue between the lateral edge and the foramen caecum of the tongue, and in the vertical plane, a 14.5-mm depth. Despite the presence of minor branches of the hypoglossal nerve in this area, we think that the trunk of the nerve would be preserved. Conclusion: We suggest that the landmarks that we determined to avoid motor deficit of the tongue will be helpful for clinicians during RAT to the tongue base. © TÜBİTAK.