OP015: Reconstruction of combined intracranial–extracranial defects by mycutaneuous free flap

Abstract

Objective The purpose of this study was to evaluate experiences of combined intracranial–extracranial defects reconstruction and to identify reconstructive management principles that may assist in achieving successful multidisciplinary approaches. Method Clinical records of 11 patients with recurrence tumor who required skull base reconstruction with mycutaneuous free flaps were reviewed retrospectively. Patients had undergone skull base surgeries through multidisciplinary approaches with simultaneous reconstruction for the anterior and middle cranial fossa skull base in 5 patients each, and the posterior fossa in 1. Donor sites included the latissimus dorsi (9), pectoralis major muscle (2). Results Reconstruction was performed as planned in all patients with a low incidence of complications. Necrosis of the flaps was not encountered. The postoperative recovery time was from 7 to 15 days. Conclusions Mycutaneuous free flap transfer is a robust option in the repair of post-surgical skull base penetrating defects. Latissimus dorsi mycutaneuous free flap is a well-vascularised flap with homogenous thickness, various types of this flap can be harvested to cover any size and location of skull base defect.