Validation of a Treatment-Based Classification System for Individuals With Facial Neuromotor Disorders

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: A method for linking treatments to signs and symptoms of facial neuromotor disorders is needed. We describe the construct validation of a treatment-based classification system for facial neuromotor disorders. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Based on physical signs and symptoms, 148 patients (mean age = 48.9 years, SD = 16.1, range = 20-93) were assigned to treatment-based categories. The pattern of impairment and disability was compared with clinic expectations. RESULTS: The distribution of impairment and disability scores demonstrated the expected signs and symptoms of the treatment-based categories. Confirmatory principal-components factor analysis indicated 4 factors, corresponding to the treatment-based categories; the factor loadings confirmed the presence of the key sign or symptom characteristic of the categories. CONCLUSION AND DISCUSSION: Classifying facial neuromotor disorders into treatment-based categories appears to be a valid method for categorizing patients with specific impairments or disabilities and may be useful in linking treatments to outcomes.