Abstract
Anterior skull base reconstruction: a contemporary review
Highlights
Anterior craniofacial defects present significant challenges in head and neck reconstruction[1]
The goal of anterior cranial base reconstruction is to separate the cranial cavity from the aerodigestive tract, which demands a watertight closure to prevent cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak, pneumocephalus, and meningitis
The adoption of endoscopic endonasal skull base surgery has created new challenges for reconstructive surgeons as defects may need to be reconstructed through the narrow sinonasal corridor[5]
Summary
Anterior craniofacial defects present significant challenges in head and neck reconstruction[1]. Free microvascular tissue transfer has emerged in the past 30 years as a reliable reconstructive option for extensive open ASB defects This approach is beneficial among patients with prior skull base surgery and/or radiation[15], given the independent blood supply from a healthy donor site[2]. Recent popularization of the thoracodorsal artery scapular tip flap, initially described by Chepeha et al.[44], permits the harvest of the versatile scapular tip with a separate, flexible soft tissue component to recontour the complex craniofacial skeleton This technique omits the need for two separate free flaps and provides a long vascular pedicle reducing the role for interposition vein grafts[44]. -Viable option in previously failed locoregional flaps -Good pedicle mobility and optimal location
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
