Abstract
Background: Galeal or temporalis muscle flaps have been traditionally used to reconstruct skull base defects after tumor removal. Unfortunately, these flaps do not provide sufficient vascularized tissue for a dural seal in extensive defects. This study describes the successful coverage of large skull base defects using anterolateral thigh (ALT) free flaps. Methods: This retrospective study included five patients who underwent skull base surgery between June 2018 and June 2021. Reconstruction was performed using an ALT free flap to cover defects that included the intracranial space and extended to the frontal sinus and cribriform plate. Results: There were no major complications, such as ascending infections or cerebrospinal leak-age. Postoperative magnetic resonance imaging showed that the flaps were well-maintained in all patients. Conclusion: Successful reconstruction was performed using ALT free flaps for large anterior skull base defects. In conclusion, the ALT free flap is an effective option for preventing communication between the nasal cavity and the intracranial space.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 232-238 |
| Number of pages | 7 |
| Journal | Archives of Craniofacial Surgery |
| Volume | 22 |
| Issue number | 5 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 2021 Oct |
Bibliographical note
Funding Information:Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Institute for Human Tissue Restoration, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, Korea E-mail: saturn@yuhs.ac This study was supported by a faculty research grant from the Yonsei University College of Medicine (No. 6-2016-0147). Received July 16, 2021 / Revised October 20, 2021 / Accepted October 20, 2021
Publisher Copyright:
© 2021 Korean Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Association.
All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes
- Surgery
- Otorhinolaryngology