The temporalis muscle flap for intraoral reconstruction: technical modifications.

Abstract

For three years we have used the temporalis muscle flap for reconstruction of intraoral defects. Advantages of this flap are that it is non-hair-bearing, nonbulky, pliable, durable, proximal to intraoral defects, and it results in better articulation and deglutition. We have modified our original technique so that we facilitate transference of the flap by a more anterior transection through the zygomatic arch, we improve the aesthetic reconstruction by use of the transected coronoid process, we produce better function by preventing adhesions and granulation tissue, and we enhance definition of the lingual sulcus by splinting.