Overcoming Facial Paralysis with an Implantable Actuator for Restoration of Blink.

ABSTRACT

The loss of the ability to blink the eyelid is considered the most severe effect of facial nerve paralysis. The delicate homeostasis of the eye is disrupted, and without frequent intervention, the cornea can become damaged, ultimately resulting in blindness. The psychosocial impact is also significant, with individuals withdrawing from society to hide what they perceive to be a disfigurement. Surgical and engineering interventions have been devised to reanimate blink, however, a solution has yet to be designed which addresses both functional and aesthetic concerns. Here we describe an implantable electromagnetic actuator to restore the capacity to blink. Triggered synchronously with the contralateral eye, and externally modifiable to tailor treatment post-operatively to the individual, this implant restores complete blinking and a natural appearance. Cadaver studies (N=12) have been used to validate the device design, including the form factor and force required to elicit a blink, while a passive in vivo study (N=1) has verified the surgical protocol and recovery.