[Decompression surgery for Bell's palsy: an evidence-based approach].

Bell's palsy is considered a benign pathology. However it can result in considerable long-term disability. Despite the development towards the better understanding of its physiopathology, treatment is still controversial, especially the indication of decompression surgery. Current practices are not standardised. Early medical therapy associating steroid drugs and antiviral agents after the onset of paralysis has become the gold standard. There is no evidence in favour of decompression surgery.