[Rehabilitation of the paralyzed face by hypoglossal-facial nerve anastomosis. An analysis of 7 cases]

Ann Otolaryngol Chir Cervicofac. 1999 Sep;116(4):228-36.
[Article in French]

Abstract

After facial nerve injury, in cerebello-pontine tumors surgery, hypoglossal-facial anastomosis is the most common procedure, to rehabilite a paralysed face, if direct facio-facial graft is not possible. This procedure must be done, in a second time, during the next year and followed with a specific reeducation. In seven patients operated between 1985 and 1996, we performed clinical evaluation and electrophysiological examination. The best evaluation is the clinical evaluation using the G. Freyss's facial testing. Best results are seen in early, specific and continued reeducation. All our patients have a good recovery of facial nerve function, but clinical examination and electrophysiological results are not correled with an objective video performance. The management of such patients needs efficient oto-neurosurgical team and specific trained physiotherapists.

Publication types

  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Anastomosis, Surgical*
  • Facial Nerve / surgery*
  • Facial Paralysis / etiology
  • Facial Paralysis / surgery*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hypoglossal Nerve / surgery*
  • Male
  • Microsurgery*
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Care Team
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Treatment Outcome