Technical considerations for modified selective neurectomy in the management of post-facial paralysis with synkinesis

Abstract

Many patients who develop idiopathic or traumatic facial paralysis are at risk for developing synkinesis, a condition in which there is uncoordinated, and unintentional facial movements. This can cause significant dysfunction and negatively impact a patient's quality of life. Synkinesis can be treated via a variety of modalities including modified selective neurectomy, an outpatient surgical technique that targets, and ablates nerves that cause dysfunctional facial movements while preserving nerves that promote a natural smile. Selective neurectomy has been shown to improve spontaneous smile and quality of life with few long-term complications. Details on surgical technique are described in this article.