Restoration of eye closure in facial paralysis using implantable electromagnetic actuator

The most devastating outcome of facial nerve paralysis is the inability to completely close the eye as it can lead to corneal ulceration and loss of vision. Gravity-assisted eye closure with upper lid loading is commonly used; however it is limited in replicating physiological eye closure to adequately lubricate the cornea. Superior results can be obtained using more advanced reconstructive approaches, however they depend on nerve regrowth which may be unpredictable and prolonged. This report describes a novel technique for creating an active eye closure using an implantable actuator.

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