title: Update on facial nerve repair.
abstract: Facial paralysis is a complex clinical problem, and optimal management strategies continue to evolve. Areas of active investigation include improvements in neural repair techniques, and the examination of new anastomotic materials and methods, as well as the development of alternative neural bridging materials. Current controversies in nerve grafting techniques, the use of novel neural conduit materials, timing of facial nerve procedures, and frontiers in experimental nerve grafting techniques are reviewed.
authors.affiliation: Department of Otolaryngology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
authors.forename: T A
authors.initials: TA
authors.lastname: Hadlock
authors.forename: M L
authors.initials: ML
authors.lastname: Cheney
mesh_terms: D000055:Accessory Nerve / Q000637:transplantation; D000714:Anastomosis, Surgical; D000818:Animals; D005154:Facial Nerve / Q000601:surgery*; D005158:Facial Paralysis / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D007002:Hypoglossal Nerve / Q000637:transplantation; D016067:Nerve Transfer; D013497:Sural Nerve / Q000637:transplantation