Long-term outcome of the Hong Kong vascularized, pedicled temporalis fascia flap in reconstruction of mastoid cavity.

OBJECTIVES: The vascularized, pedicled temporalis fascia flap (Hong Kong flap) is an established procedure in the reconstruction of the mastoid cavity. The long-term outcome and complications have not been studied. We set out to appraise this procedure in our study. STUDY DESIGN: The clinical records of 302 ears that had the Hong Kong flap procedure from 1987 to 2006 were retrospectively studied. The study reviewed the otologic complaints leading to Hong Kong flap, the number and findings of the second or more looks, analysis of procedures year by year, time to achieve a dry ear, and the complications. RESULTS: The main otologic complaint leading to use of the Hong Kong flap is otorrhoea. The number of Hong Kong flap procedures has decreased in recent years. Twenty-one percent had second or more looks after the procedure. Forty percent of the mastoid cavities at the second look were found to have residual or recurrent cholesteatoma. It takes a median of 2 months to achieve a dry ear after the procedure. CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that the Hong Kong flap procedure is simple and desirable for mastoid reconstruction to achieve a safe and dry cavity with few complications.