ABSTRACT
-Four cases of fresh facial paralysis were treated using the "baby-sitter" procedure,
with fairly satisfactory results obtained. This procedure involves a combination of
cross-face nerve grafting and a nerve cross-over technique, such as using a hypoglossal-facial
nerve or accessory-facial nerve anastomosis. Two stages are required. Nerve cross-over
and cross-face nerve grafting using the sural nerve are performed in the first stage.
After 1 year, nerve anastomosis between the stump of the cross-face nerve graft and
that of a buccal branch in the paralyzed cheek is performed during the second stage.
The recovery of facial animation through this method is good, with patients able to
create a
near-natural smile. Electromyography demonstrates double innervation in the paralyzed
cheek area.
