Altered synaptic organization in facial nucleus following facial nerve regeneration: an electrophysiological study in man

Ann Neurol. 1977 Jul;2(1):71-3. doi: 10.1002/ana.410020114.

Abstract

Seven patients with postfacial palsy contracture and mass contractions were investigated electrophysiologically. In 3 patients the early blink reflex showed an unusually high amplitude, which can be attributed to enhanced excitability of facial motor neurons. In 5 patients the early blink reflex had acquired a crossed character. It is assumed that changes in organization of the facial nucleus contribute to the altered function of reinnervated facial muscles.

MeSH terms

  • Action Potentials
  • Adult
  • Contracture / etiology*
  • Differential Threshold
  • Eyelids / physiopathology
  • Facial Muscles / innervation
  • Facial Muscles / physiopathology*
  • Facial Nerve / physiopathology*
  • Facial Paralysis / complications*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Nerve Regeneration*
  • Reflex
  • Syndrome