[The application of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene in the treatment of facial depression with facial nerve palsy].
OBJECTIVE
In order to investigate the effect of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (e-PT-FE) in repair of facial depression.


METHODS
From February 1997 to July 1998. The e-PTFE was used as a filling and suspending material for facial depression and facial nerve palsy in 6 cases. They were followed up for 2-16 months.


RESULTS
After filling of the facial depression, the deformed side of the face became symmetrical to that of contralateral side, and those following the suspending technique using this material the affected eyelids could close completely and the oral corners were symmetrical in its static status.


CONCLUSIONS
The expanded PTFE was a safe, biocompatible and easily applied material, especially served as a filling or suspending material in the repair of facial depression with facial nerve palsy.
You
X B
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Department of Plastic Surgery, People's Hospital of Sichuan Province, Chengdu, Sichuan, P. R. China 610072.
Cao
W A
WA
Fu
R
R
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001672:Biocompatible Materials / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005146:Facial Asymmetry / Q000150:complications / Q000601:surgery*; D005158:Facial Paralysis / Q000150:complications / Q000601:surgery*; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011138:Polytetrafluoroethylene / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures
D001672:Biocompatible Materials; D011138:Polytetrafluoroethylene