CPT® Code 64740

Transection or avulsion of the lingual nerve is a surgical procedure that involves the severing and/or removal of a portion of the lingual nerve, which is a branch of the mandibular nerve. This procedure is primarily performed to alleviate chronic pain that may be associated with various conditions affecting the oral cavity. The lingual nerve is responsible for providing sensory innervation to the anterior two-thirds of the tongue and the lingual surface of the mandibular gingiva, making it a critical structure in oral sensation and function. During the procedure, an intraoral approach is utilized to access the nerve, allowing the surgeon to expose and isolate it effectively. The transection is typically carried out by grasping the nerve and dividing it at a proximal point, which may be followed by avulsion, where the nerve is twisted over a hemostat to remove it. Alternatively, the procedure may involve stretching the nerve, ligating it, and then dividing it first at the distal end before proceeding to the proximal end. This detailed approach ensures that the procedure is performed with precision, aiming to provide relief from chronic pain while minimizing potential complications.