About Video

This compilation of videos demonstrates the transmastoid decompression of the facial nerve in cases of external trauma, as well as iatrogenic damage to the nerve. It is important to decompress the facial nerve proximal and distal to the site of trauma. Certain occasions may warrant slitting of the facial nerve sheath, while others may warrant the need for an end-to-end anastomoses. Each situation differs and the surgeon should be adept with all possible techniques should the situation arise. Whenever decompression is performed and there has been extensive damage to the facial nerve parenchyma, it is advisable to start by tracing the normal looking nerve on both ends, and then working towards the damaged cut ends, so as to preserve as much of normal nerve as possible. While performing anastomoses, it is important to remember that there should be no tension on the approximated ends.