Facial translocation approaches to skull base: indications, methods and morbidity profile

Abstract

Introduction: The facial translocation approaches comprise of a series of transfacial approaches to the anterior and middle skull base. Facial translocation scores over traditional transcranial approaches in that brain retraction is minimized, thereby reducing the morbidity associated with the procedure. The facial skeleton is osteotomised along the planes of embryonic fusion with attention to the aesthetic units of the face, thereby providing a good cosmetic outcome. Principal complications of this procedure are bleeding, CSF leak, infection and delayed wound healing.