Masseteric Nerve Transfer for Facial Paralysis Secondary to Parotid Malignancy: A Retrospective Case Series.

Background

The objective outcomes of masseteric nerve transfer in the setting of parotid malignancy are unclear.

Objective

To measure objective facial reanimation outcomes of masseteric nerve transfer in patients with parotid malignancy who underwent parotidectomy with facial nerve resection. Materials and

Methods

Retrospective review of patients who underwent masseteric nerve transfer for facial paralysis secondary to parotid malignancy was carried out at a tertiary referral hospital from August 2017 to November 2021. Objective facial reanimation outcomes were analyzed using Emotrics. Minimal follow-up of 6 months was required for inclusion.

Results

Eight patients (five males) with a median age of 75.5 years (range 53-91) met inclusion criteria. Fifty percent had metastatic squamous cell carcinoma, and 50% had primary parotid malignancy. Five patients underwent concomitant cancer resection with facial nerve reconstruction. Seven patients received postoperative adjuvant radiotherapy. After reinnervation, patients had improved oral commissure excursion (from 1.51 mm ±1.27 to 3.77 mm ±1.81; p < 0.01) and facial symmetry during smile.

Conclusion

In this study, masseteric nerve transfer enhanced oral commissure excursion and facial symmetry during smile in patients with parotid malignancy and facial nerve resection.