Early Diagnostic Value of Blink Reflex and Electroneurogram of Facial Nerve in Bell's Paralysis

Objective: To study the early diagnostic value and locatable value of electroneurogram (ENoG) of facial nerve and Blink reflex in patients with Bell's paralysis. Methods: Blink reflex and electroneurogram (ENoG) of facial nerve were examined in 134 patients with Bell's paralysis in 1-3 days. Results: Abnormal rate of electroneurogram of facial nerve was 47.76% (64/134) and that of blink reflex was 100% (134/134). There was a significant difference between two groups (P 0.01). Paroximal injury in 77 cases, distal injury in 10 cases, extensive injuries in 47 cases and likely combined with brainstem and/or trigeminal nerve injury in 50 cases were detected by the ratio of R1/M and blink reflex. Conclusion: BR is a sensitive index for the early diagnosis of Bell's paralysis. Combined with electroneurogram of facial nerve, it has a locatable value for Bell's paralysis. Bell's paralysis probably combines facial nerve injury and brainstem/ trigeminal nerve injury.