Bell's palsy and hemi facial spasm in idiopathic facial paralysis: A retrospective preliminary study

Abstract

Background: Despite various management strategies available for managing idiopathic facial paralysis, recurrence of nearly 7-12% has been seen by various studies. The recurrence can be contralateral or ipsilateral compared to the side of the first episode. Recurrence of episodes more than thrice is very rare. Long-term complication presenting as hemifacial spasm is reported in nearly 5% of the cases. Aim: The present retrospective clinical study was conducted to assess the recurrence of hemifacial spasm and facial palsy. Methods: Retrospective analysis of the data was done for 50 subjects having idiopathic facial paralysis. Among included 50 subjects of the study, recurrence of two episodes was in 7 study subjects, three episodes were seen in 2 subjects, one subject had a rare fourth-time recurrence. In the included 50 subjects, a hemifacial spasm was observed. Persistence in one subject was seen even after 34 years. Suitable investigations were carried out and results were formed. Results: Recurrence in the idiopathic facial paralysis in 20% (n = 10) study subjects. Recurrence number as assessed in the study subjects was once in 80% (n = 40) study subjects, twice recurrence was seen in 14% (n = 7) study subjects, thrice in 2% (n = 4) study subjects, and more than thrice (four times) in 1 (2%) study subject. Time interval of 1-2 years, 4-5 years, 6-7 years, and more than 10 years were seen in 60% (n = 6), 20% (n = 2), 10% (n = 1), and 10% (n = 1) study subjects. Conclusion: The present study concludes that there was a significant incidence of idiopathic facial paralysis in the present study which was more common in females and the first two years following the first episode.