Myofascial Orofacial Pain Exacerbated after Masseteric Nerve Neurectomy

Abstract

Myofascial pain (MFP) is one of the most common causes of persistent orofacial pain. Patients with chronic myofascial orofacial pain may present with diffuse heterotopic pain, complicating the correct diagnosis. Treatment of chronic MFP should focus on the elimina-tion of aetiologic factors. This article describes two cases of chronic MFP of the masticatory muscles, whose symptoms were exacerbated after masseteric nerve neurectomy. The patients had suffered from irrelevant treatment which did not resolve the symptom. Their symptom was managed by conventional treatment protocol. These cases emphasize the importance of correct diagnosis and evidence-based approach.