Flap For Skull Base Reconstruction Research Articles

Long-term complications of extracranial pericranial flaps in skull base reconstruction.

Nasoseptal flaps are a frequently used and well characterized means of reconstruction following endoscopic endonasal approach surgery (EEA). However, there are alternative means of reconstruction, including the extracranial pericranial flap (ePCF), that while used infrequently fulfill a specialized need in larger or salvage reconstructions. This review aims to better characterize long-term outcomes using ePCF where there is currently a paucity of objective data on use and outcomes. A traditional pericranial flap involves elevating and rotating the flap through a craniotomy defect to reconstruct defects of the ventral skull base. The ePCF is implemented without performing a craniotomy, and instead tunnels the flap through a bony opening created at the level of the nasion. This review presents outcomes in a large single-center cohort of patients with ePCFs to better characterize the short- and long-term success, risks, and complications of this reconstructive method. Long-term follow-up demonstrates that obstruction of the frontal sinus outflow may occur but rarely requires surgical intervention. ePCF are a reasonable alternative to consider in cases where local tissue would be insufficient, is not available, or has already failed. There is a low risk of flap complications.

The lateral based nasopharyngeal flap: A novel vascularized flap for skull base reconstruction.

As the indications for endoscopic skull base approaches have increased, so has the need for more versatile vascularized flaps for skull base reconstruction. Here, we describe a novel lateral based nasopharyngeal flap (LNPF). Two cadaver heads were dissected to elucidate flap anatomy, dimensions, and technique. A retrospective review was performed on two cases where LNPF was used to repair CSF leaks in the nasopharyngeal area, and outcomes reported. The LNPF is an ascending pharyngeal artery myomucosal flap that includes the nasopharyngeal mucosa and the superior pharyngeal constrictor muscle. The flap was 1.2 × 2.2 cm in greatest dimensions. The LNPF was used for salvage CSF leak repair in two cases: one clival and one tubal. Both patients had resolution of leak at 7 months follow-up. The LNPF is a novel flap with reconstruction potential for the nasopharynx, including the lower clivus and the eustachian tube.

Clinical study of endoscopic surgery for recurrent nasopharyngeal carcinoma

Objective:To compare the clinical effects and complications of surgery + chemotherapy and radiotherapy + chemotherapy in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma recurrence, so as to compare the safety and efficacy of two different therapeutic methods. Methods:A retrospective analysis was performed on 40 patients with recurrent nasopharyngeal carcinoma after radiotherapy and chemotherapy admitted to our hospital from January 2016 to June 2020. Among them, 26 patients were treated with surgery. The recurrent tumor was removed under nasal endoscope, and the frozen resection margin was negative during the operation. Chemotherapy was continued for stage Ⅲ and Ⅳ patients from 3 to 5 weeks after surgery. Fourteen patients received secondary radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Postoperative complications and survival rate were observed. Results:There were 14 patients in the secondary chemoradiotherapy group（control group） and 26 patients in the nasal endoscopic surgery group（observation group）. Among the 26 patients, 19 patients underwent nasal septal mucosal repair, 5 patients underwent temporal muscle flap repair, 2 patients underwent submental flap repair, 2 patients had nasal septal mucosal flap necrosis and cerebrospinal fluid leakage, and the temporal muscle flap was used for secondary repair in the second stage operation, and 8 patients needed cervical lymph node dissection. The patients recovered well after surgery, and the patients in stage Ⅲ and Ⅳ were treated with chemotherapy after 3 weeks to 5 weeks according to the patient's wound condition. There were significant differences in the incidence of complications and 1-, 2-, and 3-year survival rates between the two groups（P<0.05）. Conclusion:Patients with recurrent nasopharyngeal carcinoma can be treated by nasal endoscopic surgery to remove the tumor, and the use of pedicled nasal septal mucosal flap or temporal muscle flap for skull base reconstruction, The operation can effectively prevent major complications such as internal carotid artery rupture and hemorrhage, and improve the survival rate and quality of life of patients. It provides a safe and effective treatment for patients with recurrent nasopharyngeal carcinoma.

Clinical observation of endoscopic skull base reconstruction with an anterolateral thigh free fascia flap

ObjectiveRadiation osteonecrosis of the skull base after radiotherapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma is one of the most serious complications, affecting patient survival and quality of life. To date, surgical resection is the main treatment for radiation osteonecrosis. The repair after the operation is very important. Inappropriate repair or lack of repair can easily cause local infection that can even spread to the brain, aggravating osteonecrosis. This study aimed to verify the feasibility and safety of the anterolateral thigh free fascia flap in repairing large skull base defects. MethodsFrom June 2021 to July 2022, a total of 12 patients with a history of radiotherapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma received surgical treatment at the Department of Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine. All patients were diagnosed with radiation osteonecrosis of the skull base with large skull base defects. During the endoscopic operation, a free anterolateral thigh fascia flap was used to repair the skull base and complete vascular anastomosis reconstruction. The preoperative and postoperative pain scores were retrospectively analyzed, and the dynamic changes in endoscopic surgery sites were observed. ResultsThe 12 patients had a median age of 58 y, with 8 (66.7%) males and 4 (33.3%) females. The median headache score for the patients was 5 (4–7) before surgery. The patient's headache was significantly relieved postoperatively, with 11 patients having a score of 0 and one patient having a score of 1. The stench was completely resolved after the operation. There were no serious complications during the perioperative period or 12 months after the operation. ConclusionThe application of anterolateral thigh free fascia flap in skull base reconstruction is a safe and reliable reconstruction technique suitable for endoscopic surgical repair of large-scale skull base necrosis.

Predictive model for preoperative risk calculation of cerebrospinal fluid leak after resection of midline craniofacial mass lesions

BackgroundComplex anterior skull base defects produced by resection of mass lesions vary in size and configuration and may be extensive. We analyzed the largest single-center series of midline craniofacial lesions extending intra- and extracranially. The study aims at the development of a predictive model for preoperative measurement of the risk of the postoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak based on patients' characteristics and surgical plans. Methods166 male and 149 female patients with mean age 40,5 years (1 year and – 81 years) operated for benign and tumor-like midline craniofacial mass lesions were retrospectively analyzed using logistic regression method (Ridge regression algorithm was selected). The overall CSF leak rate was 9.6%. The ROSE algorithm and ‘glmnet’ software suite in R were used to overcome the cohort's disbalance and avoid overtraining the model. ResultsThe most influential modifiable negative predictor of the postoperative CSF leak was the use of extracranial and combined approaches. Use of transbasal approaches, gross total resection, utilization of one or two vascularized flaps for skull base reconstruction were the foremost modifiable predictors of a good outcome. Criterium of elevated risk was established at 50% with a specificity of the model as high as 0.83. ConclusionsThe performed study has allowed for identifying the most significant predictors of postoperative CSF leak and developing an effective formula to estimate the risk of this complication using data known for each patient. We believe that the suggested web-based online calculator can be helpful for decision making support in off-pattern clinical situations.

Microsurgical free flaps for skull base reconstruction following tumor resection: Available techniques and complications

IntroductionResection of malignant tumors located in the anterior and middle fossae of the skull base requires thorough anatomical knowledge, as well as experience regarding the possible reconstructive options to resolve the resulting defects. The anatomical and functional relevance of the region, the complexity of the defects requiring reconstruction and the potential complications that can occur, represent a true challenge for the surgical team. The goal of this study is to describe the microsurgical reconstructive techniques available, their usefulness and postoperative complications, in patients with malignant tumors involving the skull base. Materials and methodThis observational, retrospective study, included all patients who underwent surgery for malignant craniofacial tumors from January 1st, 2009 to January 1st, 2019 at a University Hospital in Argentina. Only patients who required reconstruction of the resulting defect with a free flap were included. ResultsTwenty-four patients required reconstruction with FF; 14 were male (58.3%) and mean age was 54.9 years. Sarcoma was the most frequent tumor histology. Free flaps used were the following: anterolateral thigh, rectus abdominis, radial, latissimus dorsi, iliac crest and fibular. Complications occurred in 6 cases and no deaths were reported in the study group. ConclusionFree flaps are considered one of the preferable choices of treatment for large skull base defects. In spite of the complexity of the technique and the learning curve required, free flaps have shown to be safe, with a low rate of serious complications. For these patients, the surgical resolution should be performed by a multidisciplinary team.

Microsurgical free flaps for skull base reconstruction following tumor resection: Available techniques and complications

Resection of malignant tumors located in the anterior and middle fossae of the skull base requires thorough anatomical knowledge, as well as experience regarding the possible reconstructive options to resolve the resulting defects. The anatomical and functional relevance of the region, the complexity of the defects requiring reconstruction and the potential complications that can occur, represent a true challenge for the surgical team. The goal of this study is to describe the microsurgical reconstructive techniques available, their usefulness and postoperative complications, in patients with malignant tumors involving the skull base. This observational, retrospective study, included all patients who underwent surgery for malignant craniofacial tumors from January 1st, 2009 to January 1st, 2019 at a University Hospital in Argentina. Only patients who required reconstruction of the resulting defect with a free flap were included. Twenty-four patients required reconstruction with FF; 14 were male (58.3%) and mean age was 54.9 years. Sarcoma was the most frequent tumor histology. Free flaps used were the following: anterolateral thigh, rectus abdominis, radial, latissimus dorsi, iliac crest and fibular. Complications occurred in 6 cases and no deaths were reported in the study group. Free flaps are considered one of the preferable choices of treatment for large skull base defects. In spite of the complexity of the technique and the learning curve required, free flaps have shown to be safe, with a low rate of serious complications. For these patients, the surgical resolution should be performed by a multidisciplinary team. La resección de los tumores malignos de la base de cráneo anterior y media requieren no solo un amplio conocimiento anatómico, sino también experiencia en las posibles opciones reconstructivas factibles para resolver el defecto generado. La importancia anatómica y funcional de la región, la complejidad de los defectos a reconstruir y las posibles complicaciones que pueden desarrollar representan un verdadero desafío para el equipo quirúrgico. El objetivo del presente trabajo es exponer las posibles opciones reconstructivas microquirúrgicas, su utilidad y las complicaciones postoperatorias en pacientes con tumores malignos que comprometen la base de cráneo. Se realizó un estudio observacional retrospectivo de todos los pacientes operados de tumores malignos craneofaciales en el período comprendido entre el primero de enero de 2009 al primero de enero de 2019 en un hospital universitario de Argentina. Se incluyeron solo aquellos pacientes en los que fue necesario reconstruir el defecto a través de un colgajo libre (CL). Veinticuatro pacientes requirieron reconstrucción con CL. Catorce fueron varones ( n = 14 [58,3%]) y la media de edad fue de 54,9 años. La variedad tumoral histológica más frecuente fue el sarcoma. Los tipos de CL utilizados fueron los siguientes: anterolateral de muslo, recto anterior del abdomen, radial, dorsal ancho, cresta iliaca y fibular fueron los CL utilizados. Se reportó una tasa global de complicaciones del n = 6 (25%). Un solo paciente presentó isquemia del colgajo. No hubo mortalidad asociada. Los CL representan una de las primeras opciones en el tratamiento en defectos grandes de la base de cráneo. A pesar de la complejidad de la técnica y la curva de aprendizaje necesaria, los CL han demostrado ser seguros con bajas tasas de complicaciones graves. La resolución quirúrgica de estos pacientes se debe realizar por un equipo multidisciplinario.

A Pedicled Posterior Septal–Nasal Floor Flap and a Novel Rescue Flap for Skull Base Reconstruction

We devised a new surgical alternative to the conventional nasoseptal flap, a pedicled posterior septal-nasal floor flap that we named the Kegon flap. We evaluated the effectiveness of this flap for skull base reconstruction in patients with high-flow cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage after sellar/parasellar tumor resection. The Kegon flap with a novel rescue flap was designed to preserve blood flow and mucosa anterior to the nasal septum and to avoid flap damage during surgery. We retrospectively evaluated postoperative flap perfusion with T1-weighted contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging and characterized complications and wound healing in 5 patients who experienced high-flow CSF leakage after sellar/parasellar tumor resection requiring reconstruction. Postoperative T1-weighted contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated good flap perfusion in all patients. The area reconstructed with the Kegon flap healed within the first month following surgery. No postoperative CSF leakage or nasal hemorrhage was observed. There was no perforation of the anterior nasal septum after surgery. The mucosal defect had completely epithelialized in all patients by 3 months after surgery. There were no instances of prolonged nasal crusting or any subjective decrease in olfactory function 3 months after surgery. The use of a Kegon flap with a novel rescue flap was effective and helped preserve nasal structure and function in patients undergoing skull base reconstruction after sellar/parasellar tumor resection associated with high-flow CSF leakage.

Advances in vascularized flaps for skull base reconstruction.

Advances in anterior skull base surgery have resulted in the increasing diversification of reconstructive techniques. New vascularized flaps have been suggested in the last years, some quite similar, whereas new uses and applications have been suggested for some vascularized flaps, which have already established their value over the last decades. In this article, we describe the developments in skull base reconstruction with vascularized flaps and analyse the international experience in the use of vascularized flaps published with a focus on the last 18 months. Over the past 18 months, a number of novel or modified vascularized intranasal flaps have been described, focusing on reconstruction of larger defects, the medial orbital wall, the anterior skull base (septal flip-flap) and dissection of the nasoseptal flap from the SPA foramen. Extranasal vascularized flaps, which have been around for a long time, still have their rightful place in skull base reconstruction and have recently been adjusted for endoscopic use. We present an overview of the latest developments in vascularized flaps (intranasal and extranasal), their new implications, their modifications and complications or predictions of viability.

Radioanatomic study on the role of Hadad-Bassagasteguy flap in skull base reconstruction in endoscopic endonasal approach

Objective: To evaluate the value of Hadad-Bassagasteguy flap (HBF) in endoscopic endonasal approaches (EEA) skull base reconstruction by radioanatomic measurements on CT of the skull base of Chinese adults. The following data in terms of anterior skull base defect and reconstruction, sphenoid platform area and middle skull base defect and reconstruction including sphenoid platform and sella area, clivus area defect and reconstruction, and HBF were collected and assessed. Methods: CT image data of 42 Chinese adults were selected to obtain radioanatomic measurement data related to HBF, anterior skull base defect and reconstruction, middle skull base defect and reconstruction, and defect and reconstruction of clivus area. SPSS 26.0 software was used to analyze the data. Results: The radioanatomic measurement data about HBF and skull base of 42 Chinese adults were obtained. The width of the leading edge of HBF [(37.49±2.86) mm] was 6 mm more than the anterior skull base width at the level of the anterior ethmoidal artery [(30.87±8.61) mm], and the width of the trailing edge of HBF [(42.61±3.95) mm] was also 6 mm more than the anterior skull base width at the level of the sphenoethmoidal junction [(26.79±2.79) mm]. The total length of HBF including the pedicle [(79.68±4.96) mm] was 6 mm more than the length of the anterior skull base reconstruction [(54.06±8.67) mm], and the length of HBF without pedicle [(46.27±3.14)] mm was 6 mm more than the length of anterior skull base defect [(30.87±8.61) mm]. The trailing edge width was 6 mm more than the planum sphenoidal width at the level of the optic strut [(30.87±8.61) mm]. The total length of HBF including the pedicle was 6 mm more than the length of the planum sphenoidal, and the sella reconstruction [(64.44±10.25) mm], also was 6 mm more than the length of the planum sphenoidal reconstruction [(73.61±8.28) mm]. The length of HBF without pedicle was 6 mm more than the length of the planum sphenoidal, and the sella defect [(27.88±3.74) mm], also was 6 mm more than the length of the planum sphenoidal defect [(15.50±3.38) mm]. The width of the leading edge of HBF and the width of the trailing edge were both 6 mm more than the width of clivus reconstruction at the level of the foramen lacerum [(21.68±2.30) mm]. The total length of HBF including pedicles was 6 mm more than the clivus reconstruction length [(67.09±5.44) mm], while the length of HBF without pedicles was also 6 mm more than the clivus defect length [(37.19±3.80) mm]. Conclusions: In this study, the radiosanatomic measurements ensured that HBF could provide sufficient tissue flap for the reconstruction of the anterior skull base and sphenoid plateau and extend the reconstruction area to sella and clivus. Preoperative radiosanatomic measurement can be used to predict the size of HBF required for skull base reconstruction, which provides important guidance for flap harvest.

Temporal Galeofascial Flap for Reconstruction After Transmaxillary Approaches to the Clival Region

A paramount concern after transmaxillary approaches has been skull base reconstruction. Regional pedicled flaps represent the best reconstructive option. We have described a technique to harvest a lateral-based multilayered vascularized flap for skull base reconstruction after resection of large tumors using the transmaxillary transpterygoid approach (TMTPA). We performed a cadaver study using the TMTPA to harvest the combined temporal galeofascial flap (CTGF). The first layer, with major sealing capabilities, is composed by a temporoparietal galeal-pericranial flap. The second layer is composed by temporal muscle fascia to provide mechanical support for flap dural engrafting. The CTGF provides excellent coverage of both the clival dural lining and the ipsilateral pterygopalatine fossa structures (×1.6). The CTGF is pliable and easy to harvest. It offers great flexibility in flap content and design, providing a large quantity of vascularized tissue. The vascular pedicle derives from the superficial temporal vessels, which can ensure flap trophism. CTGF represents an effective option as a regional multilayered pedicled flap for skull base reconstruction after resection of clival tumors using the TMTPA. The flap pedicle, owing to its anatomical location, will often be preserved even after repeated microsurgical or endoscopic procedures, providing a technical alternative for reconstruction even in patients who have undergone multiple surgeries with low residual availability of regional flaps.

Olfactory Results of Endoscopic Endonasal Surgery for Pituitary Adenoma: A Prospective Study of 143 Patients

Clinical examination, including pre- and postoperative assessment of olfaction function, should be included in evaluating surgical outcomes in patients with pituitary adenomas. Most of the studies are lacking assessment of olfactory function. A prospective study of 143 patients who underwent surgical resection of pituitary adenomas from January 2014 to December 2017 was performed. Data on clinical presentation, pre- and postoperative neurologic, endocrinologic, and ophthalmologic examinations, complications, and follow-up outpatient examinations were recorded. Olfactory function was assessed using the Sniffin' Sticks odor identification test preoperatively, postoperatively (3 months), and 1 year after surgery. Normosmia was present preoperatively in 93.7%of patients, postoperatively in 95.8% of patients, and in 95.1% 1 year postsurgery. Hyposmia was present preoperatively in 4.2% of patients, postoperatively in 2.1% of patients, and in 1.4% 1 year after surgery. Anosmia was present preoperatively in 2.1% of patients, postoperatively in 2.1% of patients, and in 3.5% 1 year after surgery. In patients with preoperative normosmia, postoperative hyposmia and anosmia were present in 1.5% of patients. There were no differences according to age, sex, size, or type of pituitary adenoma. Assessment of olfactory function should be included in the analysis of pituitary adenoma surgery results. This prospective study showed low risk of olfaction deterioration if an endoscopic endonasal approach is used without any mucosal flaps for skull base reconstruction. Further studies that include objective olfaction assessment are warranted.

Extended temporalis flap for skull base reconstruction.

Traditionally, a galeal flap has been used for skull base reconstruction. In addition to the galeal flap, several other flaps, such as the temporalis muscle flap or the free vascularized flap, can be options for skull base reconstruction, and each option has advantages and disadvantages. Certain cases, however, can be challengeable in the application of these flaps. We successfully managed to cover a skull base defect using an extended temporalis flap. Herein, we present the case and introduce this novel method.

Locoregional flaps in pediatric anterior skull base surgery

Management of skull base defects involves the separation of the cranial cavity from the nasal cavity in order to prevent cerebrospinal fluid leak, pneumocephalus, and intracranial infection. The size and location of the defect as well as donor tissue available will determine the type of reconstruction. Reconstruction options include free tissue grafts, locoregional flaps, and microvascular free flaps. In children, the size of potential flaps must be considered as well as the length of the pedicle, as often these differ in children. This article will discuss numerous reconstructive options, focusing on locoregional flaps in skull base reconstruction. In addition to outlining the surgical technique for each type, we will review considerations in pediatric patients for each reconstructive option.

Hadad-Bassagasteguy flap in skull base reconstruction - current reconstructive techniques and evaluation of criteria used for qualification for harvesting the flap.

IntroductionCerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage is a common consequence or complication in the operations of skull base tumors. The Hadad-Bassagasteguy flap (HBF) is the most common local flap used in the reconstruction of the meninges. It is a nasoseptal flap (NSF) vascularized by the sphenopalatine artery (SPA). Improvement of the already existing techniques is necessary.AimTo present our experience in HBF and to evaluate the criteria used for qualification (relative and absolute indications) for the NSF reconstructive technique.Material and methodsThe retrospective study included 25 patients who underwent expanded endonasal approach (EEA) operations with the NSF. The correctness of qualification based on our own criteria was assessed. The most important modifications of the original HBF as well as the reasons for failures are discussed.ResultsThere were 12 relative and 13 absolute indications for NSF harvesting. In 2 cases no anticipated CSF leakage was observed. No complications were reported.ConclusionsSkull base reconstruction with HBF and its various modifications is a highly effective technique. Absolute indications for NSF harvesting prior to resection are: reoperations in the case of a previous open approach, preoperative CSF leakage, intradural localization of a tumor related to its etiopathogenesis, suspicion of intradural diffusion of a neoplasm in magnetic resonance imaging if the etiopathogenesis cannot clarify the tumor’s relation to the meninges. Relative indications concern mostly pituitary macroadenomas of at least 2.5 cm in diameter.

How I do it: modification of the posterior pedicled nasoseptal flap for clival and nasopharyngeal surgery

The posterior pedicle nasoseptal flap, also named the Hadad-Bassagaisteguy flap, was developed at the University of Rosario, Argentina by Hadad and Bassagaisteguy, and modified by Carrau with the aim to design a better intranasal vascular pedicled flap for skull base reconstruction (1,2). The posterior pedicle nasoseptal flap provides an ample surface area with a superior arc of rotation and is therefore a reliable flap, especially for the reconstruction of large skull base defects.

How I do it. The pedicled temporoparietal fascia flap for skull base reconstruction after endonasal endoscopic approaches

Endoscopic endonasal approaches (EEA) are an alternative for removing challenging nasopharyngeal or skull base lesions. In some cases, a nasoseptal flap (NSF) is not always available and such complex procedures may lead to carotid arteries exposition and/or dura mater (DM) wide opening. Meticulous carotid coverage and DM reconstruction are crucial for preventing early and delayed complications. We propose a step-by-step description of the pedicled temporoparietal fascia flap (TPFF) technique, with a focus on its pitfalls, advantages and limits. The TPFF is a reliable flap for skull base reconstruction when other pedicled flaps are not available. 1. Reliable flap even for irradiated patients 2. CT angiography with 3D reconstruction as pre-operative imaging 3. Doppler ultrasound probe to draw the artery's trajectory on skin 4. TPFF elevation concomitantly to the endoscopic procedure 5. Hemicoronal incision sufficient to harvest the TPFF 6. Superficial dissection in a plane just beneath the hair follicles 7. Dissection plane deep to the fad pad to preserve the frontal branch of the facial nerve 8. Surgical corridor wide enough to avoid any compression of the pedicle 9. Double visualization to avoid any twist and Doppler control of the STA patency 10. Close follow-up, toilet in clinics.

The use of free flaps in skull base reconstruction

Skull base tumours are rare, comprising less than 1% of all tumours of the head and neck. Surgical treatment of these tumours involves the approach, the resection, and the reconstruction of the defect, which present a challenge due to the technical difficulty and anatomical complexity. A retrospective study of 17 patients with tumours involving the skull base, treated by resection and immediate reconstruction using microsurgical free flaps, is presented; 11 were men and six were women. The following types of flap were used: osteocutaneous fibula flaps, fasciocutaneous anterolateral thigh flaps, and myocutaneous latissimus dorsi flaps. The most common histology of the tumours was squamous cell carcinoma. The most frequent point of origin was the paranasal sinuses (58.8%). All of the free flaps used for reconstruction were viable. A cerebrospinal fluid fistula occurred in two patients, and in one of these cases, meningoencephalitis led to death. In conclusion, the reconstruction of large defects of the skull base after ablation requires a viable tissue that in many cases can be obtained only through the use of microvascular free flaps. The type of flap to be selected depends on the anatomical structures and size of the defect to be restored.

Technical nuances of commonly used vascularised flaps for skull base reconstruction.

Reconstruction with a vascularised flap provides the most reliable outcome, with post-operative cerebrospinal fluid leak rates of less than 5 per cent. This article aims to review and summarise the critical technical aspects of the vascularised flaps most commonly used for skull base reconstruction. Vascularised flaps are classified as intranasal or extranasal. The intranasal group includes the Hadad-Bassagaisteguy nasoseptal flap, the Caicedo reverse nasoseptal flap, the nasoseptal rescue flap, the posteriorly or anteriorly based lateral wall flaps, and the middle turbinate flap. Extranasal flaps include the transfrontal pericranial and transpterygoid temporoparietal flaps. The Hadad-Bassagaisteguy nasoseptal flap is overwhelmingly favoured for reconstructing extensive defects of anterior, middle and posterior cranial base. Its pertinent technical features are described. However, it is essential to master the skills required for the various extranasal or regional vascularised flaps because each can offer a reconstructive alternative for specific patients, especially when open approaches are needed and/or intranasal vascularised flaps are not feasible.

The Reverse-Flow Facial Artery Buccinator Flap for Skull Base Reconstruction: Key Anatomical and Technical Considerations.

Objective To highlight key anatomical and technical considerations for facial artery identification, and harvest and transposition of the facial artery buccinator (FAB) flap to facilitate its future use in anterior skull base reconstruction. Only a few studies have evaluated the reverse-flow FAB flap for skull base defects. Design Eight FAB flaps were raised in four cadaveric heads and divided into thirds; the facial artery's course at the superior and inferior borders of the flap was measured noting in which incisional third of the flap it laid. The flap's reach to the anterior cranial fossa, sella turcica, clival recess, and contralateral cribriform plate were studied. A clinical case and operative video are also presented. Results The facial artery had a near vertical course and stayed with the middle (⅝) or posterior third (⅜) of the flap in the inferior and superior incisions. Seven of eight flaps covered the sellar/planar regions. Only four of eight flaps covered the contralateral cribriform region. Lastly, none reached the middle third of the clivus. Conclusions The FAB flap requires an understanding of the facial artery's course, generally seen in the middle third of the flap, and is an appropriate alternative for sellar/planar and ipsilateral cribriform defects.