Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
Sublingual Hematoma
A collection of blood beneath the tongue, often occurring after lingual nerve injury or floor-of-mouth surgery.
Full Definition
A sublingual hematoma is a localized collection of blood in the sublingual space, typically resulting from trauma to lingual vessels during oral surgery procedures. This complication can cause significant swelling and potential airway compromise if extensive. Immediate recognition and appropriate management, including airway assessment and possible surgical drainage, are essential to prevent serious complications.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguished from superficial bruising by its location and potential for airway compromise.
In Context
- "Post-operative monitoring revealed a developing sublingual hematoma requiring immediate intervention." — Emergency consultation note
- "The patient presented with sublingual hematoma and mild respiratory distress following wisdom tooth extraction." — Emergency department report
Also known as
sublingual bleeding
floor-of-mouth hematoma
Don't confuse with
sublingual abscess
ranula
angioedema