ObjectiveTo summarize the research status of mandibular sensory dysfunction after transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA), and explore its potential treatment methods and existing problems, and provide ideas and methods for future clinical treatments or research. MethodThe domestic and foreign literatures about peripheral nerve injury and its treatment after TOETVA were searched and reviewed. ResultsMental nerve injury was considered to be the main cause of mandibular sensory dysfunction after TOETVA. Due to the lack of unified definitions and assessment standards, the true incidence remained unclear. In order to reduce the risk of mental nerve injury, methods such as exposing the mental nerve and combining vestibular approaches during surgery had certain advantages. In terms of treatment, several methods promoting nerve repair were noteworthy, including B vitamins, nerve growth factors, physical therapy and so on. In addition, some auxiliary treatments of Traditional Chinese Medicine also showed effectiveness in promoting nerve regeneration. ConclusionsIt is essential to avoid damage to the mental nerve and mandibular tissues during surgery. For patients with significant complaints postoperatively, active treatment should be pursued. Establishing objective and quantifiable standards for evaluating mandibular sensory dysfunction and seeking effective clinical plans through a multidisciplinary approach may be the direction for future research.
