Reanimation Techniques in Facial Paralysis

Facial nerve palsy is a condition characterized by loss of motor function of the muscles of facial expression, resulting in significant aesthetic and functional issues. The etiology includes trauma to the face or temporal region, tumors, compression injury, viral infections, as well as idiopathic causes. It is a clinical condition that significantly affects quality of life. Loss of expressive facial movements, secondary vision compromise that may develop due to corneal exposure and social issues caused by lack of oral competence may also occur. The primary goals for ideal rehabilitation of facial nerve palsy are to restore facial symmetry with satisfactory eye closure, oral skills, articulation, nasal valve function, and dynamic facial expression. Depending on the duration of facial paralysis, the extent of injury, and the possible degree of atrophy of the muscles innervated by the facial nerve, one or more of these goals may be very difficult or impossible to achieve. This chapter reviews the indications, timing, outcomes, and potential complications of interventions to restore facial function.