A Novel Approach to Preventing Temporal Hollowing Using Virtual Surgical Planning and Suture Suspension of the Temporalis Muscle.

Cranioplasty is a well-described technique used to restore the contour and function of calvarial defects using various alloplastic implants and autologous bone grafts. However, unsatisfactory esthetic outcomes after cranioplasty are frequently reported, specifically postoperative temporal hollowing. Temporal hollowing arises when the temporalis is inadequately resuspended after cranioplasty. Several methods to prevent this complication have been described with variable degrees of esthetic improvement, but no single method has proven superior. Herein the authors present a case report demonstrating a novel approach to resuspending the temporalis that incorporates holes in the custom cranial implant to allow for resuspension of the temporalis through suture fixation to the implant.

Uso del músculo temporal en reconstrucción periorbitaria post exéresis de carcinoma epidermoide cutáneo del globo ocular izquierdo / Use of the temporal muscle in post exeresis periorbital reconstruction of cutaneous epidermoid carcinoma of the left eyeball

Introducción. El carcinoma epidermoide cutáneo (CEC) es la segunda neoplasia cutánea más frecuente después del carcinoma basocelular. La incidencia del CEC ha aumentado de forma considerable durante los últimos 20 años y predicen un incremento en la próxima década. La mayoría de los CEC están localizados y se resuelven habitualmente mediante la extirpación quirúrgica u otros procedimientos locales. El uso del músculo temporal es una alternativa quirúrgica para corregir el defecto periorbitario tras la extirpación del CEC. Objetivo. Evaluar el resultado de la cobertura del músculo temporal en la corrección del defecto periorbitario. Material y métodos. Se presenta un caso quirúrgico de un paciente masculino, 62 años, que presenta una gran lesión tumoral que compromete el globo ocular, región orbitaria y periorbitaria izquierda, acompañado de dolor, anemia, astenia y pérdida ponderal de aproximadamente 20 libras. Con una evolución de 6 años. Conclusión. El uso del músculo temporal es una alternativa eficaz en la reconstrucción de lesiones craneofaciales, que ha sido utilizado por más de 100 años.

Introduction. Skin epidermoid carcinoma (SEC) is the second most common skin neoplasm after basal cell carcinoma. The incidence of SEC has increased considerably over the past 20 years and predicts an increase over the next decade. Most SECs are located and usually resolved by surgical removal or other local procedures. The use of the temporal muscle is a surgical alternative to correct the peri-orbital defect after removal of the SEC. Objective. To evaluate the result of temporal muscle coverage in the correction of the peri-orbital defect. Material and methods. There is a surgical case of a male patient, 62 years old who has a large tumor injury that compromises the eyeball, orbital region and left periorbital. Accompanied by pain, anemia, asthenia, and weight loss approximately 20 pounds. With an evolution of 6 years. Conclusion. The use of the temporalis muscle is an effective alternative in the reconstruction of craniofacial lesions that has been used for more than 100 years

Endoscopic Orbital Reconstruction With Temporalis Muscle Flap.

ABSTRACT: Temporalis muscle flap is one of the most commonly used flaps in orbital reconstruction. Although multiple case series in the literature have reported elevation of the flap with an open incision and a retrograde approach from the periorbital region, to the best of the authors' knowledge, no studies have reported the use of an endoscopic method. Therefore, the authors' study presents endoscopy-assisted temporalis muscle reconstruction of a defect that occurred in the periorbital region following orbital exenteration. Minimal scarring and morbidity are some of the advantages of endoscopic methods, and healing without complications was achieved in our patient during the postoperative period. To the authors' knowledge, their study is the first to report the use of temporalis muscle flap in endoscopy-assisted periorbital reconstruction, which is a preferred method for endoscopic surgery.

Novel Surgical Treatment of Recurrent CSF Leak by Temporoparietal Temporalis Myofascial Flap: A Series of 6 Cases.

BACKGROUND: With the advent of modern endoscopes and a better anatomic understanding of the skull base, the indications of endonasal approaches are increasing. These procedures may be complicated by high rates of postoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak, and reconstruction of the defect remains challenging. In the anterior skull base, vascularized grafts have been reported as superior in preventing CSF leakage and infection. The Hadad-Bassagasteguy flap, being a pedicled flap, is our first line flap to reconstruct the skull base. When we were not successful with this flap, we resorted to different flaps. OBJECTIVE: We modified the originally described temporoparietal fascial flap by Fortes et al and applied clinically. The objective of this paper is to briefly describe the modification of the flap and to review the clinical outcome. METHODS: From 2014 to 2018, in 6 cases of CSF leak with the appropriate indication, we used the temporoparietal myofascial flap repair that is a modification of the temporoparietal fascial flap by Fortes et al. We took all the 6 patients in our study and followed them up. RESULTS: All of the 6 repairs were successful, and no CSF leak was found just after the operation in 6- to 48-month follow-up. CONCLUSION: We recommend our modified novel temporoparietal myofascial flap as a very good option in case of failed cases of postoperative CSF leak.

Clinical and morphological results of xenografts to use in myringoplasty.

The main aim of our study was to study morphological state of the autograft from the fascia of the temporal muscle in myringoplasty. Until now, there is no consensus on issue of which fabrics are more suitable for use in the eardrum. We decided to study of use of an autograft from the fascia of the temporal muscle for myringoplasty in rabbits in the experiment, and in patients with chronic dry mesotympanitis. An electron microscopic examination of the fascia taken immediately, after 10, 20 min and 1 h after sampling. It was found that there are no gross destructive changes in the fascia structure. Minor changes are detected in the form of a light disorganization of the collagen complex, granular dystrophy with an increase in cell. Inflammatory diseases of the middle ear are widespread among population of all age groups. In the experiment, a positive result was obtained in 29 (82.8%) rabbits. In our research we performed morphological features of xenograft engraftment in an experimental animal on 3, 7, 14, 21 days and 1-3 months. In period from 3 days to 3 months after operation, the animals were euthanized by an air embolism and subjected to pathological examination. Then recovered xenograft, was examined macro and microscopically. Pieces were fixed in a 10% solution of neutral formalin. After washing with water, dehydration was carried out in alcohol and chloroform, and after, waxed with paraffin. Histological sections were stained with hematoxylin-eosin. Collagen fibers were detected by method of Vann-Gieson.

Graft Success and Hearing Results between Cartilage Island Graft and Temporal Muscle Fascia Graft Myringoplasty.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the graft success and hearing results in patients who underwent cartilage island graft (CIG) myringoplasty and temporal muscle fascia graft (TFG) myringoplasty. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective clinical study. PLACE AND DURATION OF STUDY: Ankara Numune Training and Research Hospital, Otolaryngology Clinic, Ankara, from January 2013 to January 2018. METHODOLOGY: Patients who underwent cartilage island graft myringoplasty and temporal muscle graft myringoplasty for chronic non-suppurative otitis media were inducted. Age, gender, preoperative audiologic examination results, postoperative audiologic examination, perforation site, graft material, preoperative microscopic examination and graft success were documented. RESULTS: A total of 116 patients were included in the study. The mean age of the patients was 35 ±15.3 years. Fifty-four patients were females and 62 were males. Temporal muscle fascia graft was applied to 68 (58.6%) patients, while cartilage graft was applied to 48 (41.4%) patients. The success rate of graft was found to be 80.2% (55 cases with graft success) in TFG; whereas, this rate was found to be 93.8% (45 cases with graft success) in CIG group. Cartilage island graft material had a better graft success in terms of graft endurance (p = 0.048). There was no statistically significant difference between the two graft materials in terms of postoperative hearing success (p = 0.29). CONCLUSION: Cartilage island grafts can be preferable for myringoplasty operations.

Superficial Temporal Muscle Fascia Grafting: Successful Transplant of Surgical-induced Necrotizing Scleritis.

To report the case of a surgical-induced necrotizing scleritis (SINS) following vitreoretinal surgery for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, successfully managed by superficial muscle temporal fascia grafting. An 18-year-old teenager, with a history of a 23G vitrectomy with silicone oil tamponade for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment of the left eye, presented with intense left ocular pain, decreased visual acuity to counting fingers and eye redness. Split lamp examination showed: Conjunctival infiltration with silicone oil, circumferential sclera thinning with ectasia of the underling uvea. The fundus examination showed an attached retina. Necrotizing scleritis was the retained diagnosis. SINS was the final diagnosis. An immunosuppressive therapy was started. Superficial muscle temporal fascia grafting was performed to cover the necrotizing sclera. The patient did well postoperatively without sclera thinning or ectasia and the fascia grafting still intact without retraction after 6 months of follow-up. This is the first case in the literature that used the superficial temporal muscle fascia as a graft for sclera reinforcement in SINS. We propose new support to reinforce the deficient sclera. This graft must be associated with prompt immunosuppressive therapy at high doses.

Prevention of Craniofacial Pain Secondary to Harvesting of Temporalis Fascia - A Novel Technique.

OBJECTIVES: A lesser known after effect of harvesting temporalis fascia is the post-surgical craniofacial pain. The aim of the study was to evaluate this pain after tympanomastoid surgeries and the effectiveness of silastic sheet interpositioning to prevent this pain. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This pilot study that spanned one year, included patients who underwent tympanoplasty with or without mastoidectomy involving the harvesting of temporalis fascia. At the end of surgery, the wound was closed after silastic sheet was secured over the donor site in cases and without silastic sheet in controls. In the post-operative period, patients scored their temporal pain, tenderness and pain during opening of mouth and mastication on a visual analogue scale (VAS) on day 7, 15, 30 and 90. RESULTS: Visual analogue scale (VAS) scores of the silastic group were lower than the control group on day 7 and 15 after surgery and the difference was statistically significant. In the control group, temporal pain and tenderness were 74% and 81% respectively on day 7. VAS scores of both groups decreased over time and were negligible after 3 months. There were no significant postoperative complications in either group and no reaction or rejection of silastic sheet in the cases. CONCLUSION: Post-surgical craniofacial pain secondary to the harvesting of temporalis fascia is observed in a majority of the patients. This novel technique involving silastic sheet interposition can decimate early post-operative temporal pain, tenderness and masticatory pain.

McLaughlin's legacy in the current treatment of facial palsy.

Charles Redmond McLaughlin was a pioneer in both facial palsy surgery and in facial plastic surgery (East Grinstead, 1946-1969). Thanks to his work, the personalised treatment of facial palsy was begun.

Endoscopic tympanoplasty with limited tympanomeatal flap elevation in pediatric cases: comparison of anatomic and audiological results of grafts.

OBJECTIVES: The anatomical and functional success rates of tragal cartilage perichondrium and temporal muscle fascia, in pediatric patients who underwent endoscopic type 1 tympanoplasty with limited tympanomeatal flap elevation, were compared. METHODS: In total, 35 pediatric patients (21 females, 14 males; mean age 11.0 ± 1.5 years; range 8-14 years) who underwent transcanal endoscopic type 1 tympanoplasty with limited elevation of the tympanomeatal flap were included in this study. Patients in group A received a tragal cartilage perichondrium graft and those in group B received a temporal muscle fascia graft. The groups were compared with respect to the pre- and postoperative air-bone gap (ABG) and tympanic membrane status. RESULTS: The mean preoperative and postoperative ABG were 27.0 ± 9.2 and 9.0 ± 8.5 dB in group A, and 26.8 ± 8.8 and 11.6 ± 9.2 dB in group B, respectively. The group differences in pre- and postoperative ABG values were not significant (p = 0.882 and p = 0.417, respectively). However, in both groups, the postoperative ABG was significantly lower than the preoperative ABG (both p = 0.0001). The graft retention rate was 100% in group A and 88.2% in group B; the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.134). There was also no statistically significant difference between the pre- and postoperative bone conduction values of the patients at 0.5, 1, 2, 3 or 4 kHz (all p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Our study demonstrated that in pediatric patients undergoing endoscopic tympanoplasty, both the tragal cartilage perichondrium and the temporal muscle fascia can be used successfully and safely as grafts in endoscopic type 1 tympanoplasty performed by limited tympanomeatal flap elevation.

Maxillary reconstruction using rectus femoris muscle flap and sagittal mandibular ramus/coronoid process graft pedicled with temporalis muscle.

BACKGROUND: Maxillary reconstruction using various pedicled and free-tissue transfer techniques with bone graft or without bone graft has some drawbacks. In this study, we demonstrate maxillary reconstruction using femoris rectus muscle flap and sagittal mandibular ramus/coronoid process graft pedicled with temporalis muscle through the modified lateral lip-submandibular approach. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Nine patients suffering from maxillary defects secondary to maxillary cancer ablation, who underwent maxillary reconstruction using rectus femoris muscle flap and sagittal mandibular ramus/coronoid process graft pedicled with temporalis muscle, were enrolled into this study between November 2015 and August 2017. RESULTS: All patients who underwent the maxillary reconstruction using femoris rectus muscle flap and sagittal mandibular ramus/coronoid process graft pedicled with temporalis muscle presented satisfactory postoperative function, with adequate mouth opening, optimal esthetic outcome and no restrictions on the diet. Every rectus femoris muscle flaps mucosalized well within five weeks. No donor site functional impairment or complications were observed. CONCLUSIONS: The technique is a feasible and acceptable technique for the maxillary reconstructions. It is safe, quick and simple to harvest. It also presents an optimal esthetic and satisfactory functional outcome with the advantage of low morbidity of the donor site. Combined with the three-dimension reconstruction, this technique can improve the postoperative outcomes.

Modified Temporalis Muscle Flap for Eyelid Reanimation.

The reanimation of both upper and lower paralytic eyelids requires dynamic procedures for longevity of correction. Temporalis muscle ensures the criteria for reanimation and is used widely as a result. Many modifications were described to improve the success of the classical technique. One of these modifications was reported by the senior author in 1999. Twice as much muscle mass (in thickness) to the upper eyelid than the lower was taken and passed submuscularly 5 to 6 mm away from the limbus and a thinner split was passed subcutaneously beneath the lower cilia. The aim of this study was to present the outcomes of the technique after 38 operations with 37 patients and to describe deep temporalis musculofascial-fatty flap to recover depression of temporalis muscle split donor area. Seventeen lower eyelids were evaluated as mild, 12 were as moderate, and 9 were as severe ectropion. One upper eyelid was evaluated as mild, 14 were as moderate, and 23 were as severe lagophthalmos preoperatively. Mean follow-up time was 28.8 months. Five patients had mild ectropion and 2 patients had mild lagophthalmos postoperatively at last follow-up. Two patients needed medial canthal tendon reinsertion secondary to relaxation of fixation suture at medial canthus. All patients tolerated the procedure and all complaints were resolved without creating a notable cosmetic deformity.

Comprehensive approach to reestablishing form and function after radical parotidectomy.

INTRODUCTION: The reconstructive goals following radical parotidectomy include restoration of symmetry, reanimation of the face, and reestablishment of oral competence. We present our experience utilizing the anterolateral thigh (ALT) free flap, orthodromic temporalis tendon transfer (OTTT), and facial nerve cable grafting to reestablish form and function. MATERIAL AND METHODS: From 2010 to 2016, 17 patients underwent radical parotidectomy followed by immediate reconstruction. An ALT was harvested to accommodate the volume and skin defect. Additional fascia lata and motor nerve to vastus lateralis (MNVL) were obtained. Anastomosis of the ALT to recipient vessels was performed, most commonly using the facial artery and internal jugular vein. OTTT was performed by securing the medial tendon of the temporalis to orbicularis oris through a nasolabial incision. Fascia lata was tunneled through the lower lip, then secured laterally to the temporalis tendon. The MNVL was cable grafted from either the proximal facial nerve or masseteric nerve to the distal facial nerve branches. ALT fascia was suspended to the superficial muscular aponeurotic system. RESULTS: Average follow up was 19 months. Only one patient failed to achieve symmetry attributed to dehiscence of OTTT. All patients achieved oral competence and dynamic smile with OTTT activation. Facial nerve recovery was seen in 8 patients. 5 reached a House Brackman Score of 3. Two donor site seromas and two wound infections occurred. CONCLUSION: Simultaneous ALT, OTTT, and facial nerve cable grafting provides early reestablishment of facial symmetry, facial reanimation, and oral competence with minimal morbidity.

Keeping the fat on the right spot prevents contour deformity in temporalis muscle transposition.

The temporalis muscle transposition is a reliable, one-stage reanimation technique for longstanding facial paralysis. In the variation described by Rubin, the muscle is released from the temporal bone and folded over the zygomatic arch towards the modiolus. This results in unsightly temporal hollowing and zygomatic bulging. We present a modification of this technique, which preserves the temporal fat pad in its anatomical location as well as conceals temporal hollowing and prevents zygomatic bulging. The data of 23 patients treated with this modification were analysed. May classification was used for evaluation of mouth reanimation. Experts and patients scored visibility of the contour deformity on a 100-mm visual analogue scale (VAS) (score 0 = poor/100 = best). 3D images of the face were used to measure temporal hollowing and zygomatic bulging. 3D images were compared to those of controls with a similar gender and age distribution. After a median follow-up of 5.7 years, all patients achieved symmetry at rest. Eleven patients achieved symmetry while smiling with closed lips (May classification "Good"). A median (interquartile range [IQR]) VAS score of 19 (6; 41) was given by experts and 25 (5; 59) by patients themselves. 3D volumes of zygomatic bulging differed from those of control subjects, although all volume differences were small (median <3.3 ml) and temporal hollowing did not differ significantly. On the basis of our results, we conclude that our modified Rubin temporalis transposition technique provides an elegant way to conceal bulging over the zygomatic arch and prevents temporal hollowing, without the need for fascial extensions to reach the modiolus.

Facial Reanimation in the Seventh and Eighth Decades of Life.

BACKGROUND: Treatment of facial paralysis in the older population is often relegated to static rather than dynamic reanimation for fear of poor outcomes. This pervasive approach lacks physiologic foundation and is not evidence based. Thus, the authors present an extensive literature review demonstrating weak evidence supporting this misguided concept, followed by detailed outcomes from three centers of the largest reported series to date of patients older than 60 years after reanimation performed using three techniques-lengthening temporalis myoplasty, free functional muscle, and nerve transfers. METHODS: A PubMed search spanning over 40 years identified all reports on reanimation in patients older than 60 years. In addition, detailed demographics, surgical techniques, and outcomes of 30 patients older than 60 years were analyzed. RESULTS: Of 629 articles, only 45 patients were identified, described in case reports or small series, lacking details or consistent long-term follow-up. In the clinical series, average age, preoperative House-Brackmann score, and comorbidities were similar among the groups. Highest excursion was observed in the free functional muscle group, followed by nerve transfer and temporalis myoplasty, averaging 10.4, 6.8, and 3.1 mm, respectively. The most notable philtral deviation correction was in the lengthening temporalis myoplasty group, followed by the free muscle and nerve transfer groups, averaging 5.6, 2.2, and 1.13 mm, respectively. Complication rates were highest in the free functional muscle group. CONCLUSIONS: Facial palsy patients should not be denied dynamic restoration based on age alone. Although surgical technique may vary based on duration of palsy, surgeon experience, and preference, with each presenting advantages and disadvantages, dynamic restoration is feasible regardless of age. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, IV.

Chimeric Reverse Temporal Muscle and Pericranial Flap for Double-Layer Closure of Deep Facial Defects.

PURPOSE: Volumetric or multiplane defects of the upper and midface remain a challenge for reconstruction because of limited regional flap options. In this study, the authors harvested the reverse temporalis muscle flap and pericranial flap (RTMP flap) based on the same vascular pedicle, the superficial temporal artery, in a chimeric manner to obtain double-layer closure of deep facial defects. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was a prospective case series performed in the Department of Plastic Surgery of Ataturk University (Erzurum, Turkey). The outcomes, including flap survival, postoperative complications, reconstructive success, esthetic appearance, and donor site morbidity, were clinically evaluated. RESULTS: Fourteen patients (10 male and 4 female) with deep defects of the middle third of the face underwent reconstruction using the chimeric RTMP flap. All chimeric RTMP flaps survived without postoperative complications. All defects were successfully repaired and covered with chimeric RTMP flaps. Patients were satisfied with the esthetic results. CONCLUSION: The chimeric RTMP flap is a good reconstruction option and can be used safely for moderate to large 3-dimensional defects of the middle and upper face. Smooth and durable coverage over the bulky muscle flap used to fill the volume defect and a larger flap for larger volume defects can be obtained by including the pericranial segment of the chimeric RTMP flap.

Comparison between clinical and audiological results of tympanoplasty with double layer graft (modified sandwich fascia) technique and single layer graft (underlay fascia and underlay cartilage) technique.

INTRODUCTION: Surgical repair of the tympanic membrane, termed a type one tympanoplasty is a tried and tested treatment modality. Overlay or underlay technique of tympanoplasty is common. Sandwich Tympanoplasty is the combined overlay and underlay grafting of tympanic membrane. OBJECTIVE: To describe and evaluate the modified sandwich graft (mediolateral double layer graft) tympanoplasty using temporalis fascia and areolar fascia. To compare the clinical and audiological outcome of modified sandwich tympanoplasty with underlay tympanoplasty. METHODS: A total of 88 patients of chronic otitis media were studied. 48 patients (Group A) underwent type one tympanoplasty with modified sandwich graft. Temporalis fascia was underlaid and the areolar fascia was overlaid. 48 patients (Group B) underwent type one tympanoplasty with underlay fascia technique. 48 patients (Group C) underwent type one tympanoplasty with underlay cartilage technique. We assessed the healing and hearing results. RESULTS: Successful graft take up was accomplished in 47 patients (97.9%) in Group A, in 40 patients (83.3%) Group B, and in 46 (95.8%) patients in Group C. The average Air-Bone gap closure achieved in Group A was 24.4±1.7dB, in Group B, it was 22.5±3.5dB and in group C, it was 19.8±2.6dB. Statistically significant difference was found in graft healing rate. Difference in hearing improvement was not statistically significant. CONCLUSION: Double layered graft with drum-malleus as a 'meat' of sandwich maintains a perfect balance between sufficient stability and adequate acoustic sensitivity.

Elongated Miofascial Temporal Flap in Comparison with Standard Surgical Procedure of Temporal Muscle Reconstruction.

INTRODUCTION: Flap of the temporal muscle (m. temporalis) with its natural position, its mass and its length, compared with other bound and free microvascular flaps, is the method of choice for covering the middle part of the face after the removal of large tumor masses. MATERIAL: The study included a sample of 36 patients who were surgically treated due to malignant process at the middle face level with the performed partial, total or bilateral maxillectomy at the Clinic for Maxillofacial Surgery, University Clinical Center in Sarajevo. The sample is divided into three groups. METHODS: The usual procedure of lifting the temporal flap in the first group, at the second extension of the coronoid processus. A group of three-elongated myofascial flap, which includes lifting the muscle along with deep temporal branches of maxillary artery with deep temporal fascia, its two layers and associated stem of thesuperficial temporal artery. RESULTS: Statistical analysis of the length indicated that in group III the mean length was 9.83 cm, group II- 8.25, and group I- 6 cm. The longest segmental lobe in group three provides safer work and the length of the lifted lobe with double vascular stem. This provides coverage of defects that cross over the median line of the middle face. The results coincide with the comparative world studies. CONCLUSION: For large defects at the meddle part of the face that overlap the median line, an extraordinary solution is elongated myofascial flap with double vascular supply, with a larger flap mass and a length of about 9.83 cm.