Objective
The purpose of this study was to observe clinical characteristics and electrodiagnostic findings of idiopathic facial palsy and to follow up beyond 1 year after onset. Method: From February 2002 to July 2003 the authors analyzed 103 cases that could be followed up after 1 year since diagnosed as idiopathic facial palsy by electrodiagnostic study which was performed at approximately 2 weeks after the onset time. The patients were classified by House- Brackmann (H-B) facial nerve grading system on their first visits and followed up by telephone interview using H-B system. Treatment method, age, sex, medical history and symptoms were noted. In addition, the blink reflex, nerveconduction study and needle electromyography (EMG) were done. Results: When degree of degeneration (% degeneration) was greater than 90% at approximately 2 weeks after the onset or motor unit action potentials were not detected in at least one among the four tested muscles, patients did not gain satisfactory facial function after 1 year. Conclusion: Methods related to prognosis of idiopathic facial palsy were compared with side to side evoked potential amplitude and needle EMG. This methods would be helpful to explain its prognosis. (J Korean Acad Rehab Med 2005; 29: 602-607)
