Facial Nerve Paralysis

The facial nerve carries parasympathetic, sensory, and motor fibers. It is involved in facial movements, taste, functions related to hearing, and parasympathetic functions such as tear and saliva secretion. Interruption of nerve conduction at any point results in facial paralysis. Loss of facial nerve function has a significant impact on daily life, both functionally and psychologically. Eye problems such as decreased lacrimation, ptosis, epiphora, ectropion, and corneal damage due to keratopathy in advanced stages can be observed. On the other hand, nasal valve insufficiency and nasal obstruction problems due to decreased nasal muscle support, perioral muscle insufficiency, disruption of facial symmetry, and disruption of facial expression significantly reduce quality of life. Facial paralysis may be due to idiopathic, traumatic, iatrogenic, infectious or congenital causes. Physical examination, electrophysiological tests and radiologic examinations can be performed for diagnosis. Observation, medical treatment and surgical treatment may be preferred in its treatment. Corticosteroids are used in medical treatment. In surgical treatment, decompression, end-to-end anastomosis or cable graft options are available in appropriate cases. Successful results can be achieved if the right treatment methods are used with the right timing in appropriate cases.