POST MASTOIDECTOMY DELAYED FACIAL NERVE PALSY – A SURGEON’S SHORT-LIVED NIGHTMARE!!

Introduction: Post mastoidectomy facial nerve palsy is seen either immediately or after some delay following surgery. Early diagnosis and treatment is key to prevent fatal complications. Methodology: A set of 3 case series was studied who developed facial palsy after 7 to10 days of uneventful mastoid surgery. Serial photographs were taken to document the progression of the patients from disease to recovery after institution of therapy. Results - All 3 patients were completely recovered within 30 days. Conclusion: Delayed facial nerve palsy is rare. It can be due to virus reactivation, surgical stress, or laceration of the chorda tympani nerve with a resultant retrograde facial nerve edema. But with timely presentation & management, it has a good prognosis and recovery rate. A combined approach from the Otolaryngologist and the physiotherapist aids in the timely improvement of the patient.