Work

Surgical repair of facial nerve defects by an autologous great auricular nerve transplantation: a retrospective, 12-month, follow-up study

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Background: To observe facial nerve function recovery from an autologous great auricular nerve (GAN) transplantation in repairing facial nerve defects. Methods: Thirty-six patients were included. Facial nerve functions were evaluated by using the House-Brackmann grading system. Abnormal sensations after the GAN sacrifice were recorded. Results: = 6), with an average length of 2.6 ± 1.1 (1.0-6.5) cm. One case showed tumor recurrence during the follow-up. Lack of feeling (78.1%) was the dominant postoperative abnormal sensation, followed by lack of sensitivity (53.1%) and abnormal sensation (40.6%). Long facial nerve defects (>3 cm) and preoperative facial paralysis combined with parotid gland malignancies retarded facial nerve function recovery. Conclusion: Autologous GAN transplantation is effective for repairing facial nerve defects and recovering facial nerve function during the 12-month follow-up period.

Source: Frontiers in Oral Health

DOI: 10.3389/froh.2026.1920749