How to Diagnose Traumatic Neuroma

A traumatic neuroma, or damage imposed on the nerve following a surgical procedure, is a potential complication of a wisdom tooth extraction. Ninety percent of cases of traumatic neuroma cases occur in relation to the trigeminal nerve following an upper or lower third molar extraction. The condition is characterized by symptoms like shooting pain on the affected side of the mouth, numbness, and a tingling sensation. The characteristic pain of the traumatic neuroma can be triggered by the slightest touch of a finger when washing the face. A prompt diagnosis and treatment of the situation is required to avoid further complications, such as paralysis of the affected area.

Instructions

• 1

  Get an electromyographytest done to evaluate the nerve function. A low EMG reading would indicate that there was nerve damage in the affected area. EMG test results will be interpreted by the technician who administers the test and the results will be given to you indicating whether you are in the typical range for your body composition. This investigative procedure also aids in assessing the status of healing following a nerve injury.

• 2

  Get a magnetic resonance imaging scan done to obtain a clearer picture of any damage done to the surrounding structures, like tissues or spaces through which the nerve passes.

• 3

  You can obtain a definitive diagnosis of traumatic neuroma after a doctor takes a biopsy of the tissue around the affected site. The biopsy will be analyzed by a laboratory for any abnormal physical cues that could be causing symptoms which are similar to those of a traumatic neuroma.

• 4

  Learn more about your treatment options if the tests come back with abnormal results. Surgery or physical therapy may be in order to fully counteract the symptoms of a traumatic neuroma.