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

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 The follow-up lasted for an average of 18.5 (12–60) months. Facial nerve defects were caused by parotid gland malignancies ( n = 30) or trauma ( n = 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.