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Updated: Oct 19, 2025

Single-stage Dynamic Reanimation of the Smile in Irreversible Facial Paralysis by Free Functional Muscle Transfer
Published on: March 1, 2015
[Functional reconstruction in traumatic paralysis]
1Klinik für Plastische, Ästhetische, Hand und Wiederherstellungschirurgie, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, OE 6260, Carl-Neubergstr. 1, 30625, Hannover, Deutschland. weyand.birgit@mh-hannover.de.
Background:
Traumatic nerve injuries are associated with a high morbidity and long rehabilitation times. The extent of a nerve lesion and the related regeneration potential can often only be estimated during the course, whereby the time window for successful surgical interventions is limited.
Objective:
The incidence and distribution of traumatic nerve lesions are reported. Algorithms for treatment decisions are presented.
Material And Methods:
Statistics from the German TraumaRegister DGU® as well as international registers were evaluated. The results of basic research and expert recommendations for diagnostics and treatment are discussed.
Results And Conclusion:
A strategic approach to conservative and surgical treatment of traumatic nerve injuries depending on the extent of injury and resulting regeneration potential is recommended. In conjunction with the clinical course, electrophysiology and imaging diagnostics, e.g. nerve sonography, can help to differentiate between neurapraxia, axonotmesis and neurotmesis.

