The 32nd Annual Dr. Robert Allen Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Lecture: Numb Lip / Numb Tongue What to Do About It? How To Avoid Medical-Legal Risks? -Advancements in Maxillofacial Nerve Repair
Thursday, April 3
2 - 5 PM
3 CDE Credits – DDS, DH, DA
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
Iatrogenic lingual and inferior alveolar nerve injuries are the most dreaded compilations encountered by the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon. Historically direct nerve repair has a poor prognosis (<50% recovery), and most surgeons were reluctant to treat this condition. However, with the availability of nerve allograft and the development of new nerve reconstruction techniques, the efficacy, ease, and predictability of repair and reconstruction have become the standard of care, with a near 90% recovery rate given repair in a timely fashion. This session will discuss the etiology, prevention, and surgical advancements in nerve repair/reconstruction in iatrogenic and ablative/reconstructive surgery.
Course Objectives:
1. Discuss physiology of trigeminal nerve and mechanisms of nerve injuries
2. Review current nerve repair concepts
3. Review management of complications
PRESENTER:
James Melville, DDS
Dr. James C. Melville is a Tenured Professor at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston UTHealth, specializing in Oral, Head & Neck Oncology, and Microvascular Reconstructive Surgery. Recognized for Dr. Melville’s outstanding contributions, he has received prestigious awards such as the Faculty Educator Development Award, the AAOMS Advocacy Challenge Coin and AAOMS Clinical Research Award in 2023 for fostering innovations, new diagnostic and therapeutic interventions applicable to the clinical practice of oral and maxillofacial surgery
Dr. Melville is highly involved in professional organizations, serving as President of the Oral & Maxillofacial Section of the AADOCR/IADR and holding leadership roles in the AAOMS Clinical Interest Group and the International Academy of Oral Oncology. With extensive experience as a diplomat and examiner, he is a fellow of several prominent surgical associations and has authored numerous textbook chapters and peer-reviewed articles. Dr. Melville's expertise and dedication continue to shape the field of oral and maxillofacial surgery.
