Lingual Nerve Injury — NDEB AFK MCQ

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ModerateOral SurgeryLingual Nerve InjuryNDEB AFK

Which nerve is most commonly injured during extraction of a mandibular third molar due to retraction of the lingual flap?

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Correct answer: B — Lingual nerve

The lingual nerve is at risk during mandibular third molar surgery, particularly when a lingual flap is raised or a lingual retractor (e.g., Howarth) is placed. The nerve lies in close proximity (average 2-3 mm below the alveolar crest and 0.6 mm medial to the lingual plate) at the third molar region. Injury causes ipsilateral numbness and/or taste alteration of the anterior two-thirds of the tongue. Incidence of temporary lingual nerve injury is approximately 0.5-2%.

Reference: Hupp – Contemporary Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, 7th ed., 2019