Comparison of the electrodiagnostic tests' efficacy on prediction of early clinical prognosis of bell's palsy

The aim of the study was to compare the prognostic value of the electrodiagnostic tests which have been used for prediction about prognosis of Bell’s palsy. 40 patients followed up at Gülhane Military Academy Otolaryngology Department between 2008 and 2011 because of Bell’s palsy were included in the study. Data were analyzed retrospectively. House-Brackmann classification was used for facial nerve functions. All patients were performed Nerve Excitability Test, Maximal Stimulation Test, Nerve Latency Test and Electromyography between 7th and 21th days of palsy. Patients were followed up for 4 months and eventually facial nerve motor function improvements were determined as complete (House-Brackmann class 1) recovery and incomplete (House-Brackmann class 2 or more) recovery. At the first visit facial nerve functions were detected class 2 in 2 patients, class 3 in 12 patients, class 4 in 12 patients, class 5 in 11 patients and class 6 in 3 patients. At the last visit 30 out of patients improved complete and 10 patients improved incomplete recovery. Electromyography and Maximal Stimulation Tests were superior tests for prediction of prognosis of the facial palsy according to other electrodiagnostic tests. Although Electromyography and Maximal Stimulation Test are more useful tests, also other tests can provide additional information us for prediction of prognosis.