The Use of Split Temporalis Muscle Flap in Maxillofacial Reconstruction

Abstract

Study Design: Case Report. Objective: The Temporalis muscle (TM) Flap is a reliable, versatile flap with adequate bulk and flexibility. However, temporal hollowing is the most common postoperative complication after harvesting the flap. We describe a surgical modification for harvesting the split TM flap to prevent postoperative temporal hollowing and report 2 cases with up to 18 months of follow-up. Method: This study discusses the posterior ⅔ split temporalis muscle flap in preventing temporal hollowing. We report 2 well-documented cases with up to 18 months of postoperative follow-up. Also, the authors discuss the key points regarding the technique’s indication and limitation. Results: The posterior ⅔ split temporalis muscle flap is reliable in both benign and malignant disease processes. The results demonstrate the flap’s reliability with minimum donor site morbidity. Conclusion: The use of the posterior ⅔ of the TM flap is a viable technique to prevent the flap’s harvest’s temporal hollowing.