Loss of reflex tearing after maxillary orthognathic surgery case report and literature review

Purpose: To report a case of unilateral loss of reflex tearing after double-jaw surgery with anatomy and mechanism. Case summary: A 32-year-old woman complained of a 3-year history of loss of tearing in her left eye. She had undergone double-jaw surgery 3 years prior to correct her malocclusion. In orbital computed tomography (CT) images, there were no specific findings, with the exception of a fractured left pterygoid plate, possibly caused by the double-jaw surgery. The tear break-up times of both eyes were similar, with non-specific findings on slit lamp examination. We diagnosed loss of reflex tearing due to pterygopalatine ganglion injury based on her history, physical examination and orbital CT findings. Conclusions: Nerve damage due to artificial fracture may occur during double-jaw surgery and may result in loss of reflex tearing, thus, pre-operative evaluation of basic lacrimal secretion and a reflex tearing test are important. Once the loss of reflex tearing due to nerve injury occurrs, orbital CT scans are needed for diagnosis. Ophthalmologist examination is necessary to confirm the mechanism of loss of reflex tearing and changes in the anatomical structure.