title: Facial reanimation using the masseter-to-facial nerve transfer.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  This article describes facial reanimation using the transfer of the trigeminal motor nerve branch of the masseter muscle (masseter nerve) to the facial nerve (masseter-to-facial nerve transfer).
  
  
  METHODS
  A retrospective review was performed of 10 consecutive facial paralysis patients treated with a masseter-to-facial nerve transfer for reanimation of the midface and perioral region over a 7-year period. Patients were evaluated with physical examination, direct measurement of commissure excursion, and video analysis.
  
  
  RESULTS
  All patients regained oral competence, good resting tone, and a smile, with a vector and strength comparable to those of the normal side. Motion developed an average of 5.6 months after masseter-to-facial nerve transfer, with 40 percent of patients developing an effortless smile by postoperative month 19.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The masseter-to-facial nerve transfer is an effective method for reanimation of the midface and perioral region in a select group of facial paralysis patients. The technique is advocated for its limited donor-site morbidity, avoidance of interposition nerve grafts, and potential for cerebral adaptation, producing a strong, potentially effortless smile.
authors.affiliation: Houston, Texas From the Center for Facial Paralysis Surgery and Functional Restoration, Institute for Reconstructive Surgery, The Methodist Hospital.
authors.forename: Michael J A
authors.initials: MJA
authors.lastname: Klebuc
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D002648:Child; D005145:Face / Q000294:innervation / Q000601:surgery*; D005154:Facial Nerve / Q000601:surgery*; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008406:Masseter Muscle / Q000294:innervation*; D008875:Middle Aged; D016067:Nerve Transfer / Q000379:methods*; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D015361:Rhytidoplasty / Q000379:methods*; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D055815:Young Adult