Facial Plast Surg 2000; 16(4): 357-360
DOI: 10.1055/s-2000-15551
Copyright © 2000 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA. Tel.: +1(212) 584-4662

Facial Reanimation with Microneurovascular Free Flaps

Maisie Shindo
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
31 December 2000 (online)

ABSTRACT

Numerous options are available for rehabilitation of chronic facial nerve paralysis, ranging from simple slings to complex procedures such as microneurovascular tissue transfer. Microneurovascular muscle transfer is generally indicated: 1) if the patient desires dynamic facial reanimation, particularly restoration of involuntary emotional facial expressions; 2) in the absence of distal facial nerve fibers or motor endplate fucntion; 3) with an associated large soft tissue defect in the cheek; and 4) when other dynamic reanimation procedures have not been successful. The most commonly used free flaps for facial reanimation are gracilis, latissimus dorsi and inferior rectus abdominus muscle. When successfully performed free flaps yield excellent functional and aesthetic results in facial reanimation.

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