Post-parotidectomy Facial Paresis: Intraoperative and Postoperative Factors

Post-parotidectomy Facial Paresis: Intraoperative and Postoperative Factors

This is a protocol to govern the prospective trial of facial nerve monitoring in patients undergoing parotidectomy with an eye towards interpreting if the facial nerve monitor provides useful information to operating surgeons and if the information provided by the facial nerve monitor can predict degrees of postoperative facial nerve paresis.

Additionally, the study will determine if performing daily facial rehabilitation exercises provides a benefit in reducing time to recovery of temporary post-parotidectomy paresis.

Inclusion Criteria:

• 18 years of age or older
• Planned parotid gland surgery (superficial or total parotidectomy)
• Benign or malignant disease

Exclusion Criteria:

• Pregnancy
• Preoperative facial nerve dysfunction
• Revision operation
• History of preoperative radiation to the surgical field
• Entire nerve not dissected
• Intentional nerve sacrifice
• Poor signal to noise ratio during surgery
• Lack of access to device compatible with video conferencing software, or lack of access to broadband internet connection