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About Facial Palsy

Facial palsy, also known as facial paralysis, is a condition characterized by the paralysis or weakness of the muscles responsible for facial expression and function. It occurs as a result of damage or disease affecting the Facial nerve, which controls the movement of the facial muscles.

Causes of Facial nerve palsy

• Direct injury due to trauma : Traumatic events, such as fractures, lacerations, or head injuries, can directly damage the facial nerve, leading to facial palsy. Accidents falls, or sports-related injuries are potential causes of such trauma.
• Benign and malignant tumors : Tumors, both benign and malignant, that develop in or near the nerve sheath can exert pressure on the facial nerve, resulting in paralysis. These tumors can originate from various structures, including the nerve itself or the surrounding tissues.
• Surgical damage : During surgical procedures involving structures near the facial nerve, such as operations on the Parotid gland (a salivary gland located in the cheek), inadvertent damage to the nerve can occur, leading to facial palsy. This can happen due to the proximity of the nerve to the surgical site.
• Intracranial haemorrhage and tumors : Hemorrhages or tumors within the brain can impinge on the facial nerve as it passes through the skull, causing facial palsy. Conditions like intracerebral hemorrhage or certain brain tumors may result in such compression.
• Compression from tumors : Tumors originating from surrounding structures, such as the skull base or neck, can compress the facial nerve and disrupt its normal function. This compression can lead to facial palsy.
• Stroke : In some cases, a stroke affecting the part of the brain that controls the facial nerve can result in facial palsy. The interruption of blood flow to the brain can cause paralysis or weakness on one side of the face.
• Bell's Palsy : Bell's palsy refers to facial palsy of unknown cause. It is thought to occur due to viral inflammation or swelling around the facial nerve. While the exact cause is unclear, viral infections, such as herpes simplex, have been associated with Bell's palsy.

Diagnosis of Facial nerve palsy

The investigations required for diagnosis may include captivating tests like

• CT scan of the Head
• MRI of Head
• EMG
• Nerve conduction studies

Treatment of Facial nerve palsy

1. The course of treatment depends on various factors, with the primary determinant being the duration since the injury occurred. If the patient seeks medical attention within the initial year of injury, a straightforward surgical intervention such as primary nerve repair or employing nerve grafts and transfers can be pursued.
2. However, for patients who arrive later (beyond 2 years post-injury), alternative options like Labbe's repair or Free functioning muscle transfer utilizing the Gracilis muscle become viable choices.
3. During your consultation, your surgeon will engage in a comprehensive discussion to assess the injury's status and provide precise details on the recommended surgical approach tailored specifically to your needs.

Role of Physiotherapy in the Treatment of Facial Nerve Palsy

• Physiotherapy stands as a paramount pillar in the comprehensive treatment of Facial palsy, encompassing both pre-and post-operative care to uphold optimal muscle tone. Remarkably, certain patients, such as those grappling with Bell's palsy or partial injuries, may find solace solely in the transformative powers of physiotherapy.
• At Sakra World Hospital, our esteemed department of physiotherapy and rehabilitation stands among the nation's finest, boasting a team of dedicated experts, including physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and speech & language therapists. Here, unparalleled care awaits, tailored precisely to the unique needs of each facial palsy patient.

Goals of Facial Nerve Palsy Treatment

The main objective of facial palsy treatment is to restore facial muscle function. This involves focusing on two essential functions:

• Restoring eye closure : Ensure proper closing of the eyes for protection and normal blinking.
• Restoring smile : Enable a natural and symmetrical smile, enhancing facial expression and emotional communication.

Understanding the most advanced treatment of Facial Palsy at Sakra World Hospital

Sakra World Hospital has embraced the path of progress by integrating advanced systems to ensure precise and safe surgical procedures. Our skilled Plastic surgeons specialize in Facial Palsy procedures who prioritizing patient safety throughout the treatment. Moreover, our dedicated physiotherapy department is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, offering comprehensive pre-operative and post-operative support. Experience exceptional care and recovery as we combine expertise and technology for your well-being.

• The most cutting-edge method to address facial palsy is through a technique known as Highly Selective Neurotization or Super Selective Neurotization. This advanced approach aims to restore the function of specific muscles affected by the condition, which have lost their nerve supply.
• By utilizing super-microsurgical principles, this procedure precisely re-establishes innervation, allowing for targeted muscle control and facilitating the recovery of natural facial movement and expression.