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ASOHNS ASM 2026
Reliable and reproducible 5-strip facia lata ribbon slings: A Technique for Restoring Symmetry in Flaccid Facial Palsy
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ASOHNS

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Institution: Sydney Head and Neck Cancer Institute, Chris O'Brien Lifehouse - NSW, Australia

Aims: Flaccid facial palsy impairs oral continence, speech and resting symmetry. In patients with established paralysis or those undergoing facial nerve sacrifice, restoration of midfacial tone is central to rehabilitation. Static reanimation using autologous fascia lata (FL) offers a reliable method to restore midfacial tone without compromising reconstructive options. This study describes a reproducible five-strip FL sling technique for static midface and perioral reanimation and evaluates symmetry outcomes. Methodology: A retrospective review was conducted of patients who underwent static FL sling reanimation at a tertiary head and neck cancer centre (2017–2025). Five ribbon-like FL strips were anchored to the upper lip, lower lip, modiolus, and midface, with fixation to the temporalis fascia. Outcomes within 6 weeks postoperatively were assessed using clinical examination, standardised photography, and FACEgram – an objective, landmark-based facial symmetry analysis tool. Results: Forty patients were included. At repose, symmetry was achieved for mouth length (p = 0.79) and oral commissure angle (p = 0.14). Improved nasal base alignment was observed in patients treated since 2023 following minor technique modification (p = 0.09). Thirty patients had concurrent dynamic reanimation (28 masseteric, 14 partial hypoglossal, 17 native facial nerve), and 21 underwent simultaneous free flap reconstruction. Symmetry was maintained in all patients with successful dynamic reinnervation. No FL infections occurred; ten patients experienced minor complications (Clavien–Dindo II–III). Conclusion: The five-strip FL sling is a reliable, reproducible technique for achieving resting facial symmetry in flaccid facial paralysis. Our previous work has also demonstrated improvement in oral competence and function. The grafts are inset in planes separate from both nerve coaptations and microvascular anastomoses, supporting its safe integration into complex oncologic reconstructions.
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Dr Rachel Braude - , Dr Yu Jin Jeong - , Prof Hubert Low -