A Review of Delayed Facial Nerve Paresis as Complication Following Total Endoscopic Ear Surgery

The aim of this study is to evaluate the incidence of delayed facial nerve paresis after total endoscopic ear surgery. This review also aims to describe the possible contributing factors and its management. This is a retrospective review of all patients who had undergone total endoscopic ear surgery for all otologic cases that required endoscopic intervention in a single otologic center from 2014 up to 2020. The delayed facial nerve paresis is defined as deterioration of facial nerve function 72 hours after total endoscopic ear surgery. A total of 56 patients were included in the study. Delayed facial nerve paresis following total endoscopic ear surgery was observed in 2 patients (3.4%). Facial weakness sets in on day 6 post operation and another one developed at day 16 after the surgery. Both patients were investigated and only one of them showed a higher titer of Varicella zoster virus antibody while another patient showed no raise of titer. Thus, explanation of postoperative edema or mechanical compression is discussed. The incidence of delayed facial nerve paresis following total endoscopic ear surgery is rare. It can occur probably several days after surgery up to 3 weeks. Our 2 cases revealed that virus reactivation may not be the only factor for delayed facial nerve palsy after surgery. The overall prognosis for incomplete delayed facial nerve paresis is very good as both patients recovered well few days after treatment with steroids.