The surgical management of facial nerve injuries is dependent upon a thorough understanding
of facial nerve anatomy, nerve physiology, and microsurgical techniques. When possible,
primary neurorrhaphy is the “gold standard” repair technique. Injuries resulting in
long nerve gaps or a significant delay between the time of injury and repair requires
alterative techniques, such as nerve grafts, nerve transfers, regional muscle transfers,
free tissue transfers, and static procedures. Scrupulous technique, selection of the
appropriate surgical management, and aggressive physiotherapy with motor reeducation
are all critical to obtaining a functionally and aesthetically acceptable result while
minimizing synkinesis and facial asymmetry. This review of the literature provides
an overview of current concepts in the surgical management of facial nerve injuries.
KEYWORDS
Facial nerve - reanimation - nerve repair
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Susan E MackinnonM.D.
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