Abstract
The test of chorda tympani nerve function was administered to 27 patients with peripheral facial paralysis associated with skull fractures. The test of chorda tympani nerve function, a submandibular salivary flow test and an electro-gustmetry were compared with neuronography. All tests were performed within one month after the onset.
Patients with Bell's palsy were also examined as a control. The results obtained were as follows.
1) The results of the preceding three tests were compared in order to determine the prognosis of facial paralysis. Electro-gustmetry is the most valuable in prognostic accuracy, especially in the diagnosis of incomplete recovery.
2) A combination of the chorda tympani nerve function test and neuronography significantly increased the diagnostic value in the prognosis of facial paralysis.
