Dynamic procedures for eyelid involvement in facial nerve palsy

Abstract

Dynamic reconstructive techniques of the eyelid in facial nerve palsy aim to restore or replace spontaneous and voluntary movement. These may include transfer and graft techniques of nerve and muscle. The role of these procedures from an ophthalmic and oculoplastic perspective is yet to be established. We conducted a literature review of studies of periocular dynamic reanimation and their methodology, and the findings were critically appraised. Common weaknesses were identified, such as a lack of robust assessment of the ocular surface, failure to differentiate effortful closure from spontaneous blink, and inability to control for potential confounding variables.

Keywords: Bell’s palsy; Blink; Dynamic eyelid reconstruction/reanimation; Facial nerve palsy/paralysis; Reinnervation.