Toronto Facial Grading System: Interobserver reliability

Abstract

The Toronto Facial Grading System (TFGS) is an observer scale for rating facial nerve dysfunction. The TFGS scores aspects of resting symmetry, symmetry of voluntary movement, and synkinesis for each division of the face (subscores) and then provides calculated total scores and an overall composite score of facial function. The developers of the scale have validated its sensitivity for identifying small changes in facial dysfunction and the independence of the different components measured. Herein we report our results in a study of interobserver reliability using the TFGS. Twenty-five patients from the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary Facial Nerve Center with varying degrees of facial paresis, paralysis, and synkinesis were videotaped, and the video recordings were scored by 5 independent observers using the TFGS. Intraclass correlation coefficients (κ) and 95% confidence intervals were calculated for subscores and for each total and composite score. Intraclass correlation coefficients ranged from 0.59 to 0.85, all considered substantial to near-perfect agreement between observers. We believe the TFGS is superior to other scales by virtue of its sensitivity, comprehensiveness, ease of use, and interobserver reliability. The TFGS presently appears to be the best option in those situations in which accurate and precise documentation of facial function is required. (Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2000;122:212-5.)