Contemporary techniques for nerve transfer in facial reanimation

Nerve transfer procedures have the potential to restore innervation and function native facial musculature. This review summarizes existing literature on nerve injury, regeneration, reinnervation techniques with a focus its various options. Utilizing as early possible, ideally during first 12 months of paralysis, is recommended. Prolonged paralysis frequently not amenable transfer. The masseteric provides excellent smile restoration after coapation midfacial branches minimal morbidity. Several modifications hypoglossal been described limit morbidity in speech swallowing. cross nerve, while appealing able achieve true spontaneous smile, has limitations terms axonal load, time reinnervation, unpredictable outcomes, utility older patients, who less regenerative potential. Finally, there are exciting new developments field, combining reanimation harness advantages donor nerves, research peripheral regeneration.