[Otoendoscopic tympanic segment and ganglion geniculi of facial nerve decompression via the attic approach].

OBJECTIVE

To research the practicability of otoendoscopic tympanic segment and ganglion geniculi of facial nerve decompression via the attic approach and the advantage of the operative procedure.

METHOD: 12 patients with traumatic peripheral facial paralysis following temporal bone fracture (n = 11) and radical mastoidectomy (n = 1) underwent otoendoscopic tympanic segment, pyramidal segment or ganglion geniculi of facial nerve decompression via the attic approach. The injured positions were estimated before operation by high resolution CT scan, Schirmer test, acoustic reflex, taste test and hearing examination.

RESULT: The facial muscle function of 6 cases (50%) recovered totally at time of discharge by Hosuse-Brackmann Standard. After 2-10 months of following up, 4 cases (33.3%) recovered totally and 2 cases (16.7%) remained light to medium facial paralysis. After operation, the hearing level unchanged (n = 8), descended (n = 2) and improved (n = 2) with auditory ossicle dislocation before operation.

CONCLUSION

Otoendoscopic assisted tympanic segment and ganglion geniculi of facial nerve decompression via the attic approach can reach the target convenient and minimally destroyed normal structure. It is a mini-invasive approach for facial nerve decompression.