Facial nerve grading systems (1985-2002): Beyond the House-Brackmann scale

Thomas S. Kang, Jeffrey T. Vrabec, Neil Giddings, David J. Terris

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

103 Scopus citations

Abstract

Objective: To assess methods of evaluating the function of the facial nerve that have been introduced over the past 15 years, particularly in comparison with the House-Brackmann scale. Data Sources: A Medline search was undertaken of the English-language medical literature between 1983 and 2000 to identify proposed methods of evaluating facial nerve function. Study Selection: Although all grading systems were considered, attention was focused on the systems that provided improvements in either precision or ease of use. Conclusions: Because of the limitations and subjectivity of the House-Brackmann scale, several new scales of various degrees of objectivity and ease of use have been introduced. The Nottingham system offers a more objective but easy-to-use facial nerve grading system that has been demonstrated to be valid and that would be easy for the average practitioner to adopt. The authors propose a more systematic evaluation of this system to determine whether its widespread application is appropriate.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)767-771
Number of pages5
JournalOtology and Neurotology
Volume23
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - Sep 2002
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Burres-Fisch system
  • Facial nerve function
  • Facial nerve grading
  • House-Brackmann grading scale
  • Nottingham system
  • Sunnybrook scale

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Otorhinolaryngology
  • Sensory Systems
  • Clinical Neurology

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