Background and Objective : The evaluation of facial nerve function is a complex procedure. The House-Brackmann facial nerve grading system(H-B grade)and the Yanagihara grading system(Y-system) have been recommended as universal standards for assessing the degree of facial nerve palsy. The purpose of this study is to compare the effectiveness of Y-system and H-B system and to know the advantages of each system for each stage of incomplete recovery or sequelae of facial paralysis.
Materials and Methods : A comparison between H-B grade and Y-system was studied with 137 evaluations of 61 cases of incomplete recovery or sequelae of peripheral facial paralysis. Each case was graded by using H-B system as a gross system and Y-system as a regional system before treatment, after 12 weeks and 6 months
Results and Conclusions : The range of score in the Y-system 0-6, 8-16, 14-22, 24-34, 32-38, 38-40 were matched with grade Ⅵ, Ⅴ, Ⅳ, Ⅲ, Ⅱ and Ⅰ in the H-B system. The percentage of H-B grade Ⅲ was the greatest among 137 evaluations and y-system showed the greatest score range. H-B system is easy to use but Y-system is more objective, quantitative and convenient to use in the incomplete recovery or sequelae state.
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