ABSTRACT

Background: People's facial expressions provide a source of information about the psychological, emotional and neurophysiological state of the person. Peripheral facial paralysis occurs as a result of a lesion in the seventh cranial nerve. The facial nerve has protective, aesthetic and communicative responsibilities, and its dysfunction causes significant social and functional impairments and subsequently negatively affects the quality of life. The etiology of facial paralysis is still not fully explained. Virtual reality has now emerged as a promising tool in many therapy and rehabilitation areas. Recently, it has been widely used in patients' rehabilitation processes.

Objectives: In this study, it is aimed to contribute to the healing process of patients by using virtual reality application in facial paralysis treatment para to increase their motivation and shorten the recovery period. Methods: In our device, a combination of Electromyography (EMG) and a virtual reality-based game system will be used in the rehabilitation of facial paralysis. Combining virtual reality and EMG will facilitate the rehabilitation process and provide feedback on the changes that occur. A 10-day exercise program in the form of a total of 5 minutes (1 minute play, 30 seconds rest) per day is planned for the patients. The colored balls on the screen are asked to do the activity tasks assigned to them and throw them into the basket. These activities; eyebrow lift: red ball, close eyes: blue ball, nose up: yellow ball, joining lips: green ball, chin up pull: white ball. With the EMG sensors in the system, the current situation in the patient will be evaluated at the beginning and at the end of the sessions and feedback will be provided to the patient. The patient will be able to see his / her performance in the given tasks on the screen, and his / her motivation will be increased with verbal expressions.

Results: Evaluation of the facial paralysis patient begins with a comprehensive history and physical examination. Electrophysiological studies help in determining the functional state of facial nerves and muscles. Electroneurography is useful in the case of unilateral facial paralysis. In our study, it is expected that the rehabilitation processes of our patients participating in the treatment will be shortened, their participation increased and thus contributed to their recovery.

Conclusions: The idea that rehabilitation, which is a difficult process, can be done in a more enjoyable and willing way is aimed with virtual reality treatment. We hope that our designed device will be useful in the treatment of facial paralysis based on neurorehabilitation principles.

Keywords: Facial Paralysis, Virtual Reality, Therapy, Rehabilitation