Efficacy of Botulinum Toxin Injections in the Treatment of Various Types of Facial Region Disorders

Abstract

Objective: Local injection of botulinum toxin is a highly effective treatment option for a wide range of movement disorders. There are reliable sources of information on its indications, effects and safety in clinical practice. In this study, we report our experience with botulinum toxin in the treatment of facial region disorders. Material and Method: Patients followed up at the Botulinum Toxin Outpatient Clinic of the Department of Neurology were retrospectively evaluated. Two preparations of botulinum toxin type A (BT-A) were used. The efficacy of BT-A injections was rated based on the improvement in symptoms and judged as follows; marked: 75-100%, good: 50-74%, moderate: 25-49%, and insufficient: symptom relief below 25%. Results: One hundred and eighty-two patients (73 male, 109 female) with various facial region disorders were included in the study. Improvement in symptoms was marked and good in subjects treated for blepharospasm, hemifacial spasm, facial synkinesis, and Meige syndrome, and moderate for oromandibular dystonia and hypersalivation. Ptosis was the most common side effect. Discussion: Based on our results, botulinum toxin is a very effective treatment for blepharospasm, Meige syndrome, hemifacial spasm and facial synkinesis. Moderate efficacy was observed in oromandibular dystonia and hypersalivation.