MR Neurography & Quantitative Muscle MRI for Evaluation of Peripheral Facial Nerve Palsy

IRB Number: 2024-0909

March 24, 2025

Institutional Review Board, Hospital for Special Surgery

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Principal Investigator

Darryl B. Sneag, MD

Co-Investigators

Delaram Shakoor, MD
Ek Tsoon Tan, PhD
Sophie C Queler
Shayna E Turbin
 

Summary

The purpose of this study is to optimize magnetic resonance neurography (MRN) and quantitative muscle MRI to characterize imaging features of patients with facial nerve palsy. The study will include 35 patients enrolled between October 2024 and June 2026. Study participation requires a one-time visit consisting of a 45-minute MRI of the face, a brief medical history interview, and facial photographs and videos for evaluation of the degree of weakness. The visit is fully funded by research. Participants are compensated $50 upon completion of the study requirements.

Inclusion/Exclusion Criteria

Individuals who are older than 18 and have spontaneous or traumatic facial nerve palsy may be eligible for this study. Participants must have some degree of weakness evident by either clinical exam or EMG. 

Individuals with relative MRI contraindications (e.g. claustrophobia, metallic hardware within imaged field-of-view) are ineligible to participate in the study. 
 

Contact Information

Darryl Sneag, MD
RadNerve@HSS.EDU