Complications of Nadbath facial nerve block and a review of the literature.

In a retrospective study of complications resulting from the Nadbath facial nerve block, we identified three patients (0.25%) over a 2-year period. Complications included dysphonia, laryngospasm, unilateral vocal cord paralysis, and a sensation of the inability to breathe. As it exits the stylomastoid foramen, the facial nerve lies close to the vagus, glossopharyngeal, and accessory nerves. Particular care must be taken, therefore, when giving Nadbath blocks in very thin individuals. The use of hyaluronidase, which enhances effusion of the anesthetic agent, should probably be withheld.