Facial Nerve Paralysis in Head Injury Cases

Abstract

Objective: Timing of surgical intervention in posthead injury facial nerve paralysis cases has been a constant topic of discussion. This study’s objectives are: 1) know the site of facial nerve trauma, and 2) determine the best timing of surgical intervention in post head injury facial nerve paralysis.

Method: Prospective study of 18 patients who underwent facial nerve surgery in past 3 years for facial nerve paralysis due to head injury at Agrawal Hospital & Research Institute was done. Site of injury, timing of surgery, and facial nerve outcome were noted. This is an analysis of an ongoing study.

Results: The most common site of injury was found to be at the first genu (83.33%) followed by the horizontal segment (11.11%). Earlier surgical intervention showed better results in the form of time duration taken for recovery and also facial nerve status (House-Brackmann grading).

Conclusion: In our series, earlier surgical intervention gives better results, and the most common site of injury is found to be at the first genu followed by the horizontal segment.