Review

Eye (2004) 18, 1225–1234. doi:10.1038/sj.eye.6701383 Published online 16 April 2004

Ophthalmic management of facial nerve palsy

V Lee1, Z Currie2 and J R O Collin3

  1. 1Central Eye Service, Central Middlesex Hospital, Acton Lane, Park Royal Acton, London, UK
  2. 2Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Glossop Road, Sheffield, UK
  3. 3Moorfields Eye Hospital, City Road, London, UK

Correspondence: Miss V Lee, MA, FRCOphth Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon, Central Eye Service, Central Middlesex Hospital, Acton Lane, Park Royal, London NW10 7NS, UK. Tel: 02084532435; Fax: 02084532404; E-mail: vickielee@mac.com

The authors have no financial or proprietary interest in this study.

Received December 2003; Accepted 6 November 2003; Published online 16 April 2004.

Top

Abstract

The ophthalmologist plays a pivotal role in the evaluation and rehabilitation of patients with facial nerve palsy. It is crucial to recognize and treat the potentially life-threatening underlying causes. The immediate ophthalmic priority is to ensure adequate corneal protection. The medium to long-term management consists of treatment of epiphora, hyperkinetic disorders secondary to aberrant regeneration and poor cosmesis. Patients should be appropriately referred for general facial re-animation. This review aims to provide a guide to the management of this complex condition.

Keywords:

gold weight, tarsorrhapy, facial reanimation, lagophthalmos, aberrant regeneration, epiphora

Top

MORE ARTICLES LIKE THIS

These links to content published by NPG are automatically generated

RESEARCH

Marcus Gunn syndrome

Eye Letter

Extra navigation

.

naturejobs

ADVERTISEMENT