Facial Clinimetric Evaluation Scores Research Articles

Assessment of Facial Function in Patients with Facial Palsy Using Patient-Based and Clinician-Based Tools

Facial palsy is a serious disorder that impairs both function and appearance resulting from facial muscle weakness. It impairs the quality of life of affected patients. There are questionnaires for general health and disease-specific assessments of quality of life accessible. Objective: To assess the facial function in patients with facial palsy using patient-based and clinician-based tools. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among patient diagnosed with facial palsy. The study sample size 79 of both genders calculated via Epitools software and using convenient sampling technique. A pre-tested structured valid and reliable tool was used for the assessment of disability and facial function via Facial Clinimetric Evaluation used as patient-based tool and House-Brackmann Scoring Scale used as clinical based tool. SPSS version 25.0 was used to analyze data. Results: The mean age of the participants was 27.53 years. 59.5% were males whereas, 40.5% were females. So, a higher prevalence of males was seen. 58.2% were recorded at grade IV (moderately severe), 31.6% were at grade III (moderate level) and 10.1% were at grade V (severe) level. There was statistically significant association between House-Brackmann scores and facial clinimetric evaluation scores (p<0.001) that was indicating that there was an association between disability and patient’s perception towards facial palsy. Conclusions: Facial Clinimetric Evaluation scale used as patient-based tool provide subjective experience and functional limitation experienced by facial palsy patient while House-Brackmann Scoring Scale used as clinical based tool provides objective evaluation of facial function of facial palsy patient.

Effect of botulinum toxin type A in functionality, synkinesis and quality of life in peripheral facial palsy sequelae

ObjectivesThis study aimed to assess the effects of botulinum toxin A (BTX-A) infiltration on face muscle function, synkinesis, and quality of life in patients with sequelae of peripheral facial palsy (PFP). Material and methodsWe present the results of a prospective study including a sample of 20 patients with sequelae of PFP (15 women, 5 men) who underwent BTX-A (Botox© or Xeomin©) infiltration. All patients had previously received personalised treatment with neuromuscular retraining. A clinical assessment was performed before BTX-A infiltration and 4 weeks after treatment. The effect of BTX-A on face muscle function, quality of life, and synkinesis was evaluated using the Sunnybrook Facial Grading System (SFGS), the Facial Clinimetric Evaluation (FaCE) questionnaire, and the Synkinesis Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ), respectively. ResultsMean SFGS scores increased from 64.8 to 69.9 after BTX-A infiltration (P=.004). Increases were also observed in mean total FaCE scores (from 52.42 to 64.5; P<.001) and the mean score on the FaCE social function subscale (from 61.15 to 78.44; P<.001). Mean SAQ scores decreased from 46.22 to 37.55 after BTX-A infiltration (P=.001). ConclusionsBTX-A infiltration increases face muscle function, improves quality of life, and reduces synkinesis in patients with sequelae of PFP.

Synkinesis and Communicative Participation.

Background: Facial palsy (FP) impacts verbal and nonverbal communication, but the effect of synkinesis on communicative ability is unknown. Objective: Among patients with nonflaccid FP, or synkinesis, is there a correlation between disease-specific quality-of-life and communicative ability or dysfunction? Methods: Retrospective study of a series of adult patients with unilateral synkinesis. Subjects were evaluated using the Communicative Participation Item Bank (CPIB) Short Form, Facial Clinimetric Evaluation (FaCE) scale, and Synkinesis Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ). Associations between these scales were evaluated by computing Pearson correlation coefficients. Results: A total of 69 confirmed synkinesis patients were included. Synkinesis patient mean (standard deviation) CPIB score was 20.68 (±8.27; range of scale 0-30), indicative of communication restriction. A strong correlation was observed between total CPIB and FaCE scores (r = 0.66), indicating patients with synkinesis who reported better facial function also reported greater communicative ability. There was a weak correlation between CPIB and SAQ scores (r = -0.27). Conclusion: Synkinesis is associated with significant deficits in communicative ability. Communication restrictions track strongly with the FaCE scale.

Interpreting Quality-of-Life Questionnaires in Patients with Long-Standing Facial Palsy.

Objective(s): To interpret change in quality-of-life scores in facial palsy patients by calculating the smallest detectable change (SDC) and minimal important change (MIC) for the Facial Disability Index (FDI), Facial Clinimetric Evaluation (FaCE) scale, and Synkinesis Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ). Materials and Methods: The SDC, for individuals and groups, was calculated using previously collected test-retest data (2-week interval). The MIC (predictive modeling method) was calculated in a second similar facial palsy population using two measurements (1-1.5-year interval) and an anchor question assessing perceived change. Results: SDCindividual of FaCE was 17.6 and SAQ was 28.2. SDCgroup of FaCE was 2.9 and SAQ was 4.6 (n = 62). Baseline FaCE and SAQ scores were 43.3 (interquartile range [IQR]: 35.8;55.0) and 51.1 (IQR: 32.2;60.0), respectively. MIC for important improvement of FDI physical/social function, FaCE total, and SAQ total were 4.4, 0.4, 0.7, and 2.8, respectively (n = 88). MIC for deterioration was 8.2, -1.8, -8.5, and 0.6, respectively. Baseline scores were 70.0 (IQR: 60.0;80.0), 76.0 (68.0;88.0), 55.0 (IQR: 40.0;61.7), and 26.7 (IQR: 22.2;35.6), respectively. Number of participants reporting important change for the different questionnaires ranged from 3 to 23 per subscale. Conclusion: Interpreting change scores of the FDI, FaCE, and SAQ is appropriate for groups, but for individual patients it is limited by a substantial SDC.

Role of Body Dysmorphic Disorder in Patients With Postparalytic Facial Synkinesis.

To evaluate the role of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) in patients with postparalytic facial nerve syndrome with synkinesis (PFS). A single-center retrospective cohort study. A total of 221 adults (74% women; median age: 44 years; median duration since onset of facial palsy: 1.6 years) were included. To diagnose BDD, the BDD Munich Module was used. Associations with House-Brackmann grading, Stennert index grading, Facial Clinimetric Evaluation (FaCE) survey, Facial Disability Index (FDI), general quality of life (SF-36), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and the Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale (LSAS) was analyzed. A total of 59 patients (27%) were classified as patients with BDD. Significant associations were found between the diagnosis of BDD and female gender and lower FDI, FaCE, and SF-36 scores and higher BDI and LSAS scores. Multivariate analysis revealed BDI, FaCE total score, and FaCE social function subscore as independent factors associated with BDD. BDD was a relevant diagnosis in patients with PFS. A higher BDD level was associated with general and facial-specific quality of life and more psychosocial disabilities. Optimal treatment of PFS has to include these nonmotor dysfunctions. 3 Laryngoscope, 131:E2518-E2524, 2021.

Efecto de la toxina botulínica tipo A en la funcionalidad, las sincinesias y la calidad de vida en secuelas de parálisis facial periférica

ObjectivesThis study aimed to assess the effects of botulinum toxin A (BTX-A) infiltration on face muscle function, synkinesis, and quality of life in patients with sequelae of peripheral facial palsy (PFP). Material and methodsWe present the results of a prospective study including a sample of 20 patients with sequelae of PFP (15 women, 5 men) who underwent BTX-A (Botox® or Xeomin®) infiltration. All patients had previously received personalised treatment with neuromuscular retraining. A clinical assessment was performed before BTX-A infiltration and 4weeks after treatment. The effect of BTX-A on face muscle function, quality of life, and synkinesis was evaluated using the Sunnybrook Facial Grading System (SFGS), the Facial Clinimetric Evaluation (FaCE) questionnaire, and the Synkinesis Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ), respectively. ResultsMean SFGS scores increased from 64.8 to 69.9 after BTX-A infiltration (P=.004). Increases were also observed in mean total FaCE scores (from 52.42 to 64.5; P<.001) and the mean score on the FaCE social function subscale (from 61.15 to 78.44; P<.001). Mean SAQ scores decreased from 46.22 to 37.55 after BTX-A infiltration (P=.001). ConclusionsBTX-A infiltration increases face muscle function, improves quality of life, and reduces synkinesis in patients with sequelae of PFP.

Quality of Life Outcomes After Modified Selective Neurectomy for Postfacial Paralysis Synkinesis.

Background: Until now, quality of life (QOL) outcomes after modified selective neurectomy for postfacial paralysis synkinesis (PFPS) have not been assessed. Objective: To evaluate QOL outcomes among patients with PFPS who underwent modified selective neurectomy. Methods: The medical records of patients aged ≥18 years with PFPS who underwent modified selective neurectomy during a 6-year period were reviewed. QOL outcomes were measured using the Facial Clinimetric Evaluation (FaCE) scale and Synkinesis Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ). Results: At <1 year after selective neurectomy, there was improvement in mean SAQ (from 26.6 [95% confidence interval {CI}, 23.7-29.5] to 21.4 [95% CI, 19.5-23.3]; p < 0.0001). Mean FaCE scores improved (from 47.1 [95% CI, 43.6-50.6] to 62.6 [95% CI, 58.7-66.5]; p < 0.0001), with improvements in all subscores except lacrimal control scores (from 61.7 [95% CI, 52.6-70.9] to 62.2 [95% CI, 53.6-70.9]; p = 0.91). At >1 year after surgery, there was improvement in mean SAQ score (from 28.8 [95% CI, 26.0-31.6] to 23.4 [95% CI, 21.0-25.7]; p < 0.0001). Mean FaCE scores improved (from 45.9 [95% CI, 41.6-50.3] to 59.4 [95% CI, 53.6-65.2]; p < 0.0001), with improvements in all subscores except eye comfort and lacrimal control (from 52.4 [95% CI, -40.8-64.0] to 56.8 [95% CI, 45.5-68.0]; p = 0.36), and lacrimal control scores worsened (from 68.0 [95% CI, 56.7-79.2] to 56.3 [95% CI, 44.8-67.7]; p = 0.023). Conclusions: Modified selective neurectomy results in QOL improvements in patients with PFPS.

Evaluating Quality of Life After Facial Reanimation Using the Facial Clinimetric Evaluation Scale in a Series of Pediatric Patients.

Facial palsy can have significant functional and psychological impact. Dynamic facial reanimation methods have provided means of restoration of smile. There remains a dearth of quality of life data in children. The authors aim to assess patient reported outcomes in this underreported population. A retrospective review was performed of pediatric patients with facial palsy who had dynamic facial reanimation from 2009 to 2017 at a single institution. Patients were sent a digital Facial Clinimetric Evaluation (FaCE) questionnaire, a validated tool to assess patient quality of life. FaCE statements are grouped into 6 categories: facial movement, facial comfort, oral function, eye comfort, lacrimal control, and social control. Twenty patients met inclusion criteria. Fourteen successfully completed the survey. With normal function being 100, our cohort scored: facial movement 38.7 ± 14.3; facial comfort 67.3 ± 23, oral function 75 ± 22.7, eye comfort 68.75 ± 18.2, lacrimal control 53.6 ± 32.5, social function 64.3 ± 25.6. The overall FaCE score was 61.07 ± 10.85. The facial movement subscores were lower for brow raise 16.1 ± 33.4 relative to smiling 53.6 ± 29.2 and lip pucker, 46.4 ± 23.7. No correlation was found between facial movement scores and total scores (R2 < 0.01). There was a strong negative correlation between total scores and time since procedure (Spearman's rho R = -0.45). Our pediatric facial reanimation cohort demonstrated excellent social function, in contrast to a relatively lower facial movement score. The low facial movement score was mediated by low score for brow raise and was not correlated to overall FaCE score. Interestingly, overall FaCE score tended to decrease with time from procedure.

Early Outcomes in an Emerging Facial Nerve Center: The Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) Experience.

Nerve transfer (NT) and free gracilis muscle transfer (FGMT) are procedures for reanimation of the paralyzed face. Assessing the surgical outcomes of these procedures is imperative when evaluating the effectiveness of these interventions, especially when establishing a new center focused on the treatment of patients with facial paralysis. We desired to discuss the factors to consider when implementing a facial nerve center and the means by which the specialist can assess and analyze outcomes. Patients with facial palsy secondary to multiple etiologies, including cerebellopontine angle tumors, head and neck carcinoma, and trauma, who underwent NT or FGMT between 2014 and 2019 were included. Primary outcomes were facial symmetry and smile excursion, calculated using FACE-gram and Emotrics software. Subjective quality of life outcomes, including the Facial Clinimetric Evaluation (FaCE) Scale and Synkinesis Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ), were also assessed. 14/22 NT and 6/6 FGMT patients met inclusion criteria having both pre-and postoperative photo documentation. NT increased oral commissure excursion from 0.4 mm (SD 5.3) to 2.9 mm (SD 6.8) (P = 0.05), and improved symmetry of excursion (P < 0.001) and angle (P < 0.001). FGMT increased oral commissure excursion from -1.4 mm (SD 3.9) to 2.1 mm (SD 3.7), (P = 0.02), and improved symmetry of excursion (P < 0.001). FaCE scores improved in NT patients postoperatively (P < 0.001). Measuring outcomes, critical analyses, and a multidisciplinary approach are necessary components when building a facial nerve center. At our emerging facial nerve center, we found NT and FGMT procedures improved smile excursion and symmetry, and improved QOL following NT in patients with facial palsy secondary to multiple etiologies.

Degree of Self-Reported Facial Impairment Correlates with Social Impairment in Individuals with Facial Paralysis and Synkinesis.

Importance: Facial paralysis leads to both aesthetic and functional deficits placing patients at risk for sociopsychological sequelae and social impairment. Objective: To examine the effect of facial paralysis and synkinesis on social impairment and quality of life (QOL). Design, Setting, and Participants: This is a cross-sectional study at a tertiary care medical center. Adults with a history of facial palsy were broadly categorized by self-reported degree of facial paralysis and synkinesis. Main Outcomes and Measures: Clinical demographic information, self-reported degrees of facial paralysis and synkinesis, and facial palsy-specific QOL as measured by the Facial Clinimetric Evaluation (FaCE) Scale and the Synkinesis Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ) were collected. FaCE and SAQ scales were evaluated as predictors of social impairment outcomes, as measured by the Brief Fear of Negative Evaluation-II (BFNE-II), the Social Anxiety Questionnaire (SAQ-A30), and Social Avoidance and Distress (SAD) scales, in addition to health utility scores from the Short-Form 6D (SF-6D). Results: Fifty-six participants with facial palsy were included (30% male; average age: 56.4 [standard deviation (SD): 15] years). Sixty-three percent of participants reported history of Bell's palsy; 37% reported other etiologies. Forty-seven percent of participants reported moderate or severe facial impairment and 46% of participants reported involuntary facial movement. Participants with moderate or severe facial impairment exhibited increased BFNE-II (p = 0.03), SAQ-A30 (p = 0.04), and SAD (p < 0.01) scores and lower health valuation on SF-6D (p = 0.04). FaCE scores moderately correlated with lower health valuation (r = 0.39, p < 0.01), and moderately and inversely correlated with SAD (r = -0.33, p = 0.01) and BFNE-II (r = -0.35, p < 0.01) scores. Furthermore, worsening FaCE scores predicted worsening SAQ (p < 0.01), SAD (p = 0.01), BFNE-II (p < 0.01), and SF-6D (p < 0.01) scores. Worse degrees of synkinesis correlated with higher BFNE-II scores (r = 0.38, p < 0.01) and worsening SAQ scores predicted worsening FaCE (p < 0.01) and BFNE-II (p < 0.01) scores. Females demonstrated significantly worse BFNE-II scores (p = 0.04) when compared with men, and female gender significantly predicted worse FaCE scores (p < 0.01). Seventy-one percent of women with self-reported moderate or severe facial impairment met criteria for social anxiety, as did 67% of women with self-reported moderate or severe synkinesis. Conclusions and Relevance: Individuals with self-reported moderate or severe facial impairment exhibit a higher degree of social impairment and poorer health valuation than those with no or mild facial impairment. Facial palsy-specific QOL moderately and inversely correlated with social impairment and moderately correlated with health valuation. Our results indicate that FaCE scores may be used as a predictor of SAD, BFNE-II, and SF-6D scores and that facial palsy QOL and its relationship with social impairment should be considered when treating patients with a history of facial palsy.

Facial Clinimetric Evaluation Scale and Synkinesis Assessment Questionnaire Translation into Brazilian Portuguese: A Validation Study.

Introduction Facial nerve palsy results in both functional disability and psychological morbidity. There are several well-established grading scales to quantify the quality of life of these patients. Objective Translate and validate the Facial Clinimetric Evaluation (FaCE) scale and Synkinesis Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ) to Brazilian Portuguese. Methods This study adopted a forward-backward translation method and performed cross-cultural adaptation. A pilot study was conducted to correct any confusing language and to evaluate content validity. A validation study was then performed. Internal consistency of the Brazilian Portuguese version of the FaCE and SAQ items was evaluated by Cronbach’s alpha coefficient. Construct validity was assessed by Spearman’s Rank Correlation Coefficient between FaCE and SAQ scores to eFACE, House-Brackmann, Short Form 12 (SF-12) and Facial Disability Index (FDI) (sub)scores. Results A total of 90 patients were included. Cronbach’s alpha for total domain scored 0.881 for FaCE and 0.809 for SAQ. FaCE total score correlation to eFACE total and House-Brackmann showed Spearman’s r value of 0.537 and −0.538, respectively ( p < 0.001). SAQ correlation to eFACE synkinesis subdomain was −0.449 ( p < 0.001). No correlation was found between SAQ and HB score. FaCE total score correlations were of 0.301 and 0.547 for SF-12 PCS and MCS, respectively ( p < 0.001). Correlation between FaCE total and FDI Physical and Social/well-being functions were 0.498 and 0.567 ( p < 0.001). Conclusion Brazilian Portuguese FaCE scale and SAQ versions achieved high validity and reliability in the present study. These translated instruments demonstrated good psychometric properties, being proper to use in clinical practice in Brazil and with Brazilian Portuguese speakers.

Validation of French versions of the Facial Disability Index and the Facial Clinimetric Evaluation Scale, specific quality of life scales for peripheral facial palsy patients.

To translate and validate French versions of two health-related quality of life questionnaires for patients with peripheral facial palsy: Facial Disability Index (FDI) and Facial Clinimetric Evaluation (FaCE) scale. Prospective cohort study. University tertiary referral centre. A pilot test was performed on 10 subjects (5 patients with facial palsy of more than 1-month duration and 5 normal subjects), and then 67 adult patients with facial palsy were enrolled in the validation study. Translation of the original questionnaires has followed international guidelines using a forward-backward translation method. A pilot test and a validation study based on the translated questionnaires were performed. Internal consistency, test-retest reliability, validity and responsiveness were assessed. Validity was assessed by comparing to SF-36 and Sunnybrook/House-Brackmann grading systems. Subjects answered scales twice within a one-week interval. Sixty-seven patients were enrolled, among which 63 completed scales one week later (retest). For physical and social functions of FDI and FaCE scores, Cronbach's α representing internal consistency was 0.88, 0.70 and 0.89, and test-retest reliability by intra-class correlation coefficients was 0.81, 0.86 and 0.89, respectively. The correlation of facial movement score of FaCE scale was good with Sunnybrook/House-Brackmann grading systems (0.73 and -0.75, P<0.01). The correlation of social function of FaCE scale was excellent with social function of SF-36 (0.8, P<0.01). French versions of FDI and FaCE scale are psychometrically valid. Both questionnaires can be used for clinical studies to assess the quality of life of patients with peripheral facial palsy.

Facial motor and non-motor disabilities in patients with central facial paresis: a prospective cohort study.

Although central facial paresis (CFP) is a major symptom of stroke, there is a lack of studies on the motor and non-motor disabilities in stroke patients. A prospective cohort study was performed at admission for inpatient rehabilitation and discharge of post-stroke phase of 112 patients (44% female, median age: 64 years, median Barthel index: 70) with CFP. Motor function was evaluated using House-Brackmann grading, Sunnybrook grading and Stennert Index. Automated action unit (AU) analysis was performed to analyze mimic function in detail. Non-motor function was assessed using the Facial Disability Index (FDI) and the Facial Clinimetric Evaluation (FaCE). Median interval from stroke to rehabilitation was 21 days. Rehabilitation lasted 20 days. House-Brackmann grading was ≥ grade III for 79% at admission. AU activation in the lower face was significantly lower in patients with right hemispheric infarction compared to left hemispheric infarction (all p < 0.05). Median total FDI and FaCE score were 46.5 and 69, respectively. Facial grading and FDI/FaCE scores improved during inpatient rehabilitation (all p < 0.05). There was a significant increase of the activation of AU12 (Zygomaticus major muscle), AU13 (Levator anguli oris muscle), and AU24 (Orbicularis oris muscle) during inpatient rehabilitation (all p < 0.05). Multivariate analysis revealed that activation of AU10 (Levator labii superioris), AU12, AU17 (Depressor labii), and AU 38 (Nasalis) were independent predictors for better quality of life. These results demonstrate that CFP has a significant impact on patient's quality of life. Therapy of CFP with focus on specific AUs should be part of post-stroke rehabilitation.

A higher quality of life with cross-face-nerve-grafting as an adjunct to a hypoglossal–facial nerve jump graft in facial palsy treatment

Nerve reconstructions are the preferred technique for short-standing facial paralysis, most commonly using the contralateral facial nerve or ipsilateral hypoglossal nerve. The hypoglossal nerve provides a strong motor signal, whereas the signal of a cross-face nerve graft is weaker but spontaneous. Spontaneity in facial expression is believed to be important for psychological wellbeing. Therefore, a combination of the two procedures incorporates the best of both: a strong motor signal and a spontaneous smile. This study aimed to objectify this expected benefit. Of the 20 patients who received a hypoglossal-facial nerve anastomosis from 1995 to 2015 in our institutions, 12 patients were included in this study, 5 with and 7 without a cross-face nerve graft. The outcomes were compared using photographs, disease-specific quality of life (Facial Clinimetric Evaluation (FaCE) scale), a self-reported synkinesis scale (Synkinesis Assessment Questionnaire) and the presence of a spontaneous smile. Significant differences were found in preoperative excursion of the affected side of the mouth and the change in excursion. Median Total FaCE scores were considerably larger (18.3 points) for patients who underwent the combined procedure. A spontaneous smile was observed both with (n=2) and without (n=1) a cross-face nerve graft. The addition of a cross-face nerve graft to a hypoglossal-facial nerve anastomosis resulted in a positive trend in disease-specific quality of life. This benefit could also be present with the combination of a cross-face nerve graft with another nerve transfer such as a masseteric-facial nerve anastomosis.

Delayed surgical management is not effective for severe Bell's palsy after two months of onset

Aims: To assess the effectiveness of delayed surgery and follow-up observation in managing severe Bell's palsy after two months of onset. Methods: Forty-one Bell's palsy patients with severe facial paralysis were treated after two months of onset. Eighteen patients in group I underwent decompression operations between two and three months after onset, and eight patients in group II underwent surgery after three months of onset; 15 patients in group III were managed with follow-up observation. All patients were followed up at the end of 3rd, 6th and 12th months, and surgical outcomes were compared with follow-up observations using House–Brackmann score and Facial Clinimetric Evaluation (FaCE) scale. Results: Between groups I and III, the difference in the proportion of the patients with fair or poor recoveries was statistically significant (p < 0.05) at the three-month follow-up visit. There was no significant difference in the distribution of complete, fair or poor recoveries at the 12-month follow-up visits among the three groups (p < 0.05). The total FaCE score and five individual domains were significantly improved at the end of the follow-up period in groups I and III (p < 0.05). However, in group I, the lacrimal control scores were significantly decreased at the end of the follow-up period compared to scores before surgery (p < 0.05). After surgery, four patients had sensorineural hearing loss, three patients had tinnitus and no patients had vertigo. Conclusion: Patients with severe Bell's palsy after two months of onset would not benefit from delayed decompression surgery.

Facial nerve reconstruction and facial disfigurement after radical parotidectomy.

The importance of facial contouring with facial nerve reconstruction following total and radical parotidectomy is often overlooked. The goal of this study was to quantify the level of facial disfigurement and nerve dysfunction following reconstruction of the facial nerve, with or without reconstruction of the contours, using free tissue transfer. A total of 26 patients with radical parotidectomy and facial nerve reconstruction were included in this retrospective study. Of the 26 patients, 15 underwent follow-up interviews and evaluation of facial nerve function and disfigurement using three different scales: the regional House-Brackmann (H-B) scale, the Facial Clinimetric Evaluation (FaCE) Scale, and the observer-rated disfigurement scale. Of the 15 evaluated patients, 8 patients underwent free tissue transfer. Mean follow-up time was 39 months (median, 35; range, 11-65 months). Of the 15 patients, 10 patients had good or moderate function according to the H-B mouth scale (median score, 4; range, 2-5), and satisfactory eye closure was observed in 10 patients (median score, 3; range, 2-5). The mean disfigurement value rated by the physician was 5 (scale, 1-9), with a mean patient rating of 4. Subjective total FaCE score varied significantly (mean, 52; range, 13-93). Facial nerve and soft tissue reconstruction are highly beneficial to patients undergoing radical parotidectomy.

Surgical Treatment of the Periocular Complex and Improvement of Quality of Life in Patients With Facial Paralysis

A devastating sequela of facial paralysis is the inability to close the eye. The resulting loss of corneal protection can potentially lead to severe consequences. Eyelid weight placement, lower eyelid suspension, and brow ptosis correction are frequently performed to protect the eye. We sought to measure and report the change in quality of life (QOL) after surgical treatment of the periocular complex, using the validated Facial Clinimetric Evaluation (FaCE) QOL instrument. From March 2009 to May 2010, 49 patients presenting to the Facial Nerve Center with paralytic lagophthalmos requiring intervention were treated with static periocular reanimation. Thirty-seven of the patients completed preoperative and postoperative FaCE surveys. Overall QOL, measured by the FaCE instrument, significantly improved following static periocular treatment. Mean FaCE scores increased from 44.1 to 52.7 (P < .001). Patients also reported a significant decrease in the amount of time their eye felt dry, irritated, or scratchy (P < .001). The amount of artificial tears and/or ointment also significantly decreased (P = .03). There were 2 cases of localized cellulitis with 1 eyelid weight extrusion. We report the first series of postoperative QOL changes following static periocular treatment for paralytic lagophthalmos. Patients report a notable improvement in periocular comfort and overall QOL.

Highlights of Archives of Facial Plastic Surgery

Archives of Facial Plastic SurgeryVol. 10, No. 2 Regular DepartmentsFree AccessHighlights of Archives of Facial Plastic SurgeryPublished Online:3 Mar 2008https://doi.org/10.1001/archfaci.10.2.78AboutSectionsPDF/EPUB ToolsPermissionsDownload CitationsTrack CitationsAdd to favorites Back To Publication ShareShare onFacebookTwitterLinked InRedditEmail Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus–Positive Surgical Site Infections in Face-lift SurgeryThere has been an alarming increase in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections. Richard A. Zoumalan, MD, and David B. Rosenberg, MD, retrospectively reviewed the cases of 780 patients who had undergone deep-plane rhytidectomy. They identified 5 patients (0.64%) as having postoperative site infections, and 4 patients (0.51%) as having culture findings that were positive for MRSA; 2 (0.26%) required incision and drainage, hospitalization, and intravenous antibiotics. The authors give a detailed discussion of management for each of the 5 cases and discuss screening, prevention, postoperative surveillance, and treatment of the infections. They conclude that MRSA-positive infections may become more prevalent and will require enhanced screening, prevention, and treatment strategies.See page 116Botulinum Toxin and Quality of Life in Patients With Facial ParalysisRitvik P. Mehta, MD, and Tessa A. Hadlock, MD, investigated the effect of botulinum toxin chemodenervation on the quality of life (QOL) in patients with facial nerve paralysis (FNP). They used the Facial Clinimetric Evaluation (FaCE) scale to assess the QOL benefit in patients with FNP with synkinesis and hypertonicity. The overall FaCE score improved from 51.7 in the pretreatment group to 63.7 in the posttreatment group. A statistically significant improvement was also seen in facial movement, facial and eye comfort, oral and social functions, and lacrimal control. The authors conclude that botulinum toxin is an important tool in the overall treatment strategy for patients with FNP with synkinesis and hypertonicity.See page 84An Anatomical Study of the Nasal Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System: Surgical Applications in RhinoplastyNasal musculature, also known as the nasal superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS), has been previously studied. Yves Saban, MD, PhD, and colleagues give an overview of this knowledge as well as a unified concept of muscles and ligaments of the nose. They performed dissections on 30 fresh cadavers in the subcutaneous, the sub-SMAS, and combined subperichondrial/periosteal planes. They also used 3 different approaches for dissection: radix to tip, tip to radix, and midline to lateral. Histologic examination of 9 cadavers was also performed. The extent of the nasal SMAS is demonstrated in photographs and histologic slides. The authors view the nasal SMAS as a unified layer spanning from the glabellar region to the nostril margin and also recognize its division into deep and superficial layers at the level of internal nasal valve.See page 109Impact of Cosmetic Facial Surgery on Satisfaction With Appearance and Quality of LifeThere is a lack of objective measurements of quality of life (QOL) within facial plastic surgery literature. Jason A. Litner, MD, FRCSC, and colleagues investigated perioperative QOL changes in patients who had undergone cosmetic nasal and facial surgery in this 3-year prospective cohort study. The Derriford Appearance Scale (DAS59), a validated survey that assesses psychological distress related to self-image, was used to measure the main outcome. The scores were analyzed by groups: for all patients, according to sex, and according to the main surgical procedure. Ninety-three surveys were administered preoperatively and 3 months postoperatively. Significant differences in perioperative QOL were noted in all DAS59 domains in this patient population. Minor differences were noted between sexes. There were also some differences in responses from patients who underwent rhinoplasty vs those who underwent aging-face surgery, yet both types of procedures improved patients' QOL.See page 79Kiss Me and You’ll Kiss the ’Lasses by Lilly Martin Spencer (1822-1902).See page 148This issue’s Highlights were written by Joseph Shvidler, MD.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 10Issue 2Mar 2008 InformationCopyright 2008 American Medical Association. All Rights Reserved. Applicable FARS/DFARS Restrictions Apply to Government Use.To cite this article:Highlights of Archives of Facial Plastic Surgery.Archives of Facial Plastic Surgery.Mar 2008.78-78.http://doi.org/10.1001/archfaci.10.2.78Published in Volume: 10 Issue 2: March 3, 2008PDF download

Assessing Impairment and Disability of Facial Paralysis in Patients With Vestibular Schwannoma

To evaluate facial impairment and disability with respect to quality of life in patients with facial paresis after vestibular schwannoma surgery. Cross-sectional observational study. Academic, tertiary care hospital. All consecutive patients during a 5-year period who underwent vestibular schwannoma surgery. The validated, patient-graded Facial Clinimetric Evaluation (FaCE) scale questionnaire was administered to all study patients. Main outcome measures included total and social function FaCE scores. Subgroup analysis was performed on patient factors (age and sex), surgical factors (tumor size and time since operation), and House-Brackmann grade. A total of 56 FaCE questionnaires were returned (85% response rate): 28 patients (50%) had normal facial function (House-Brackmann grade I), and 28 patients (50%) had abnormal facial function (House-Brackmann grades II-VI). There were no demographic differences between the normal and abnormal groups. The normal group had a total FaCE score of 96.2 compared with 67.1 in the abnormal group (P<.05). Subgroup analysis of patients with facial paresis revealed that age, sex, time since operation, tumor size, and House-Brackmann grade were not statistically significant factors predicting the FaCE social function score (P<.05). Facial paresis is an important complication of vestibular schwannoma surgery and will impair a patient's quality of life. The level of impairment may not be predicted by a patient's age, sex, tumor size, time since operation, or severity of facial paresis.