ID 382 – Electrophysiological evaluation of emotional expressions in the facial transplantation patients

Abstract

It is stated that motor and sensory innervations of transplanted face of patients often completed in 6–9 months in the literature. However, we observed clinically a problem in facial mimics and the expression of emotions. So it is aimed that, those performed face transplant, the evaluation of differences of emotional mimics in face from normal subjects. Three male patients who underwent a complete face transplant were studied. Surface EMG recordings have been recorded from patients and 10 healthy individuals. The expressions of emotions have been recorded with surface electrodes during basic emotions. An angry facial expression activity has been observed predominantly in the bottom face. Fair facial expression; there is distribution differences. Happiness facial expression; significant activity and amplitude differences was detected in the bottom. Hate facial expression; different amplitude distributions have been observed predominantly in the bottom. Surprise facial expression; an activity has been observed in the upper face with different amplitude. Sad facial expression; two of the patients distinct activity has been detected in the bottom. The expression of emotions are different from healthy individuals in patients. Face transplant patients have difficulties to express of emotions. TUBITAK Project Number: 113E182.