Endoscopic trans-canal facial nerve decompression inMelkersson–Rosenthal syndrome: A novel approach

Key Clinical Message

Melkersson–Rosenthal syndrome can cause recurring bilateral facial paralysis.
When steroids fail, surgical decompression of facial nerve is recommended, with
endoscopic trans-canal decompression as a safe, minimally invasive, and effective
option.

Abstract

Melkersson–Rosenthal syndrome (MRS) is a rare neuro-mucocutaneous disor-
der, clinically diagnosed by a triad of orofacial swelling, recurrent facial palsy,
and fissured tongue. Due to the lack of a comprehensive understanding of MRS,
there is no accepted standard of care. In this study we report a 30-year- old female
patient, who was referred to the otolaryngology clinic of Rasool Akram Hospital,
with classical triad of MRS that was managed by endoscopic trans-canal facial
nerve decompression. Bilateral endoscopic trans-canal facial nerve decompres-
sion was done when we did not find any improvement with systemic steroids.
Endoscopic trans-canal facial nerve decompression could be a safe, reliable mini-
mal invasive treatment of facial paralysis in MRS patients. It needs no external
incision or temporal bone drilling which makes this method more convenient for
patients with shorter recovery time.