Complications Following Masseteric Nerve Neurectomy with Radiofrequency for the Treatment of Temporomandibular Disorders—A Case Series and Literature Review

This article describes two cases of masseteric nerve neurectomy with radiofrequency done with the intention to treat temporomandibular disorders and related symptoms; the patients then visited our clinic complaining of side-effects after the procedure. A literature review was conducted to find scientific evidence relevant to masseteric nerve neurectomy with radiofrequency. A 21-year-old male patient visited with the chief complaint of swelling of both cheeks, dizziness, and generalized lethargy occurring after masseteric nerve neurectomy using radiofrequency. His mouth opening range was restricted. Magnetic resonance imaging indicated post-procedural inflammation with hemorrhage within both masseter muscles. A 28-year-old male patient visited with the chief complaint of occlusal discomfort and disocclusion after masseteric nerve neurectomy using radiofrequency. His occlusion was abnormal with only both second molars occluding. Overbite was −1 mm. Cone-beam computed tomography indicated degenerative joint disease of both condyles. In case 1, pharmacotherapy and physical therapy relieved overall symptoms. In case 2, although exacerbation of symptoms repeatedly occurred, long-term stabilization splint and physical therapy alleviated the temporomandibular disorders symptoms. However, the occlusion remained unstable. Scientific evidence of masseteric nerve neurectomy using radiofrequency for the treatment of temporomandibular disorders is still lacking. Therefore, conservative treatment should remain as the first line approach for temporomandibular disorders.