Vascularized Skull Bone Grafts in Craniofacial Surgery

Abstract

Vascularized skull bone grafts based on a pedicle of temporalis muscle have been used in 30 zygomatic arch and malar reconstructions, 1 mandible reconstruction, and 1 palate reconstruction. The surgical technique, complications, and postoperative results are reviewed. Technetium bone scans obtained within one week of operation confirm blood supply to the transferred bone. After a mean follow-up of 13 months, there is no evidence of bone graft resorption. We have used a team approach and careful surgical technique, and no serious complications have been encountered.