Comparing 3D and Patient-Reported Outcomes of Facial Reanimation Surgery for Unilateral Facial Paralysis

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating outcomes of facial reanimation surgeries in patients with extensive, permanent, unilateral mid-facial paralysis from various causes. The study aims to compare facial disability and patient perceptions of facial appearance, well-being, and satisfaction among four groups undergoing different types of free gracilis muscle transfer surgeries. The investigation also compares surgeons assessments with objective 3D analyses to determine the usefulness of 3D measures as outcome tools. This prospective observational study includes patients aged 18 to 75 scheduled for facial muscle reconstruction with one of four nerve innervation methods trigeminal nerve graft, cross-face nerve graft, dual innervation, or midfacial modification involving nerve coaptation and selective neurolysis. Participants will be recruited from a single treatment center and followed at three visits before surgery, and at 5 and 18 months after surgery to track changes in facial movement and patient well-being. At each visit, patients complete psychosocial questionnaires assessing the impact of paralysis and recovery, undergo 3D dynamic facial movement recordings, static 3D facial photography, and video recordings of facial animations. Data collected include facial impairment and disfigurement measures, patient-centered quality of life questionnaires, and comparisons of clinical scoring with 3D objective assessments. The total study duration for each participant is 18 months, focusing on long-term surgical outcomes.

3D Dynamic and Patient-Centered Outcomes of Facial Reanimation Surgery in Patients With Facial Paralysis