Validation of the Arabic Version of the Facial Clinimetric Evaluation Scale: A Quality of Life Assessment in Facial Palsy Patients

Abstract

Peripheral facial paralysis results in functional impairment and significant psychosocial impact. While clinician-based grading systems assess facial motor function, they do not fully reflect the patient's perspective. The Facial Clinimetric Evaluation (FaCE) Scale is a validated disease-specific instrument designed to assess quality of life in patients with facial paralysis; however, an Arabic version has not previously been available. This study aimed to translate, culturally adapt, and validate an Arabic version of the FaCE Scale. A forward-backward translation method was used, followed by validation in 85 Arabic-speaking patients with peripheral facial paralysis. Internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach α, and construct validity was evaluated by correlation with the Sunnybrook Facial Grading System. The Arabic FaCE Scale demonstrated very good internal consistency (Cronbach α=0.87). A significant positive correlation was observed between FaCE and Sunnybrook scores (P<0.05). Domain-level analysis showed strong correlations between facial movement and forehead function (r=0.79), a very strong correlation between eye comfort and eye closure (r=0.887), and moderate correlations between oral function and lower facial movements (r=0.375-0.505). The Arabic FaCE Scale is a reliable and valid tool for assessing quality of life in patients with peripheral facial paralysis and may be useful for clinical evaluation and outcome assessment in Arabic-speaking populations.