From cable grafts to free muscle transfer, surgical treatments for facial paralysis are evolving quickly. In this episode of the Backtable ENT Podcast, Dr. Myriam Loyo Li, facial plastic surgeon at OHSU, joins guest host Dr. Shiayin Yang of Vanderbilt to discuss dynamic procedures for facial paralysis.

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This podcast is supported by:

BackTable + ENT

https://www.backtable.com/shows/ent

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SYNPOSIS

First, the surgeons review workup of flaccid and non-flaccid (synkinetic) facial paralysis. Then, they review the principles of facial reanimation. Topics such as nerve graft selection and staged surgery are covered. Dr. Loyo Li explains her timelines for staged surgery and how patient characteristics affect her decision planning. Finally, the surgeons discuss free muscle transfer – an exciting new technique in the world of facial plastic surgery – to treat facial paralysis.

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TIMESTAMPS

00:00 - Introduction

02:48 - Evaluating and Managing Flaccid Facial Palsy

05:18 - Imaging and Treatment Pathways

07:16 - Nerve Grafting Techniques and Preferences

10:08 - Challenges and Innovations in Facial Reanimation

25:50 - Patient-Centered Approaches and Decision Making

37:30 - Evaluating Facial Nerve Recovery

43:25 - Timing and Criteria for Nerve Transfers

46:41 - Free Muscle Transfer Techniques

49:47 - Innovations in Cross Facial Nerve Grafts

01:06:04 - Exploring Free Strap Muscle Transfers

01:14:05 - The Future of Facial Reanimation

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RESOURCES

Dr. Loyo Li’s OHSU Profile:

https://www.ohsu.edu/providers/myriam-loyoli-md-mcr

Dr. Yang’s Vanderbilt Profile:

https://www.vanderbilthealth.com/doctors/yang-shiayin