[Idiopathic facial paralysis: long-term catamnestic study of prognosis and the significance of electrodiagnostic findings].

550 patients suffering from Bell's palsy and examined by electromyography (EMG) as well as electroneurography (ENG) were interviewed in respect of treatment and remission. In more than 80% of the cases it was possible to register volitional activity by EMG as well as to elicit an electroneurographic response. We found a high correlation between electrodiagnostical deficit and degree of recovery. EMG and ENG were equally suitable to assess the severity of damage. The overall prognosis of Bell's palsy was favorable in cases of incomplete lesions. The recovery was probably improved by administration of steroids in the examined group, especially in cases with temporary loss of electroneurographic response.