Effects of facial paralysis after acoustic neuroma surgery in Norway

This survey investigated how individuals with facial paralysis resulting from acoustic neuroma surgery manage self-care needs of daily living. Facial paralysis was defined to include damage from surgery to other cranial nerves located in the same area as the facial nerve. The 40 patients surveyed had surgery performed at the Neurosurgical Department, National Hospital of Norway, Oslo, during a four-year period. The instrument used was a questionnaire based on Orem's universal self-care requisites. Results showed that problems related to eating and drinking and certain physiological problems were accepted over time, while pain, eye problems, and hearing loss remained difficult for patients to cope with. Social and psychological problems related to the facial paralysis were ongoing for many patients and seemed to be mitigated by self-acceptance and acceptance by others.