Presentation Description
Institution: Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, Sydney - NSW, Australia
Aims
A significant proportion of patients experience persistent facial nerve dysfunction following Acoustic Neuroma Resection (ANR). We noted anecdotally that patients presented to our Facial Nerve Clinic several years after their initial surgery, and often discovered the service through internet searches or social media forums. This study aims to identify if patients with facial palsy (FP) following ANR were referred to a health professional with expertise in managing FP.
Methodology
This study was a phone survey of patients registered to the Australian Acoustic Neuroma Association who consented to contact. Patients were asked questions regarding their diagnosis and management following ANR.
Results
11 patients who underwent ANR were interviewed. Less than 40% of patients were referred to a specialist surgeon or allied health professional for management of their facial function post-operatively. 36% of patients independently organised referrals to seek care of their FP. Of those who were seen by a health practitioner, the average time to review was 28-months after surgery. No patients were given pre-operative education surrounding the risk of FP following surgery, and management options if it occurred. Instead, all patients acquired information regarding facial nerve palsy following AN using the internet or social media. Less than 1/3 of patients were educated on expected facial nerve function recovery post-operatively.
Conclusion
While tumour resection is essential in the management of AN, post-operative FP remains a debilitating surgical complication significantly affecting patient quality of life. The majority of patients are not aware of the specialist medical and allied health care targeted towards their condition that is available. Improved awareness and advocacy for early referral of patients with FP post AN should be encouraged. This information could be used to establish robust referral pathways for practitioners such as ENT surgeons, registrars and GPs.
Speakers
Authors
Authors
Dr Joseph Latif - , Dr Emma Ho - , A/Prof Catherine Meller -