Our experience with Freilinger's method for dynamic correction of facial paralysis

Abstract

Eight patients with unilateral facial paralysis of differing aetiology and duration were treated according to Freilinger's method, which includes cross-face nerve grafting and six to eight months later, transposition of a denervated (temporal) muscle flap to the nasolabial area. The end of the cross-face nerve graft is inserted into the muscle flap. Our experience and results with this technique are discussed. It is clear that the combination of cross-face nerve grafting and transposition of a denervated muscle flap is a valid principle. However, a muscle with a greater excursion and one that is easier to denervate is to be preferred to the temporal muscle.