Delayed-onset facial paralysis after vestibular neurectomy.

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS: Delayed-onset facial paralysis (beginning more than 3 d after the procedure) has been described as a complication of many different types of otological procedures. The incidence of this problem in vestibular neurectomy and the relationship to surgical approach are detailed in the study.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective case review.

METHODS

In the setting of a tertiary referral center, vestibular neurectomy was performed in 70 individuals with disabling vertigo unresponsive to medical therapy who elected vestibular neurectomy. The main outcome measure was incidence of delayed onset facial paralysis.

RESULTS

Delayed-onset facial paralysis was significantly more common after the middle fossa (18%) and translabyrinthine (11%) approaches compared with the retrosigmoid approach (0%).

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical approach influences the incidence of delayed-onset facial paralysis. Measures to prevent this complication such as prophylactic antiviral medication or labyrinthine segment decompression may be considered in middle fossa and translabyrinthine operations.