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CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 · Int Arch Otorhinolaryngol 2017; 21(03): 259-264
DOI: 10.1055/s-0037-1598653
Original Research
Thieme Revinter Publicações Ltda Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

The Temporalis Muscle Flap for Palate Reconstruction: Case Series and Review of the Literature

Tara Brennan
1   Department of Otolaryngology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico, United States
,
Tristan M. Tham
2   Department of Otolaryngology, New York Head and Neck Institute, New York City, New York, United States
,
Peter Costantino
2   Department of Otolaryngology, New York Head and Neck Institute, New York City, New York, United States
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

18 November 2016

21 December 2016

Publication Date:
17 February 2017 (online)

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Abstract

Introduction The temporalis myofascial (TM) is an important reconstructive flap in palate reconstruction. Past studies have shown the temporalis myofascial flap to be safe as well as effective. Free flap reconstruction of palate defects is also a popular method used by contemporary surgeons. We aim to reaffirm the temporalis myofascial flap as a viable alternative to free flaps for palate reconstruction.

Objective We report our results using the temporalis flap for palate reconstruction in one of the largest case series reported. Our literature review is the first to describe complication rates of palate reconstruction using the TM flap.

Methods Retrospective chart review and review of the literature.

Results Fifteen patients underwent palate reconstruction with the TM flap. There were no cases of facial nerve injury. Five (33%) of these patients underwent secondary cranioplasty to address temporal hollowing after the TM flap. Three out of fifteen (20%) had flap related complications. Fourteen (93%) of the palate defects were successfully reconstructed, with the remaining case pending a secondary procedure to close the defect. Ultimately, all of the flaps (100%) survived.

Conclusion The TM flap is a viable method of palate defect closure with a high defect closure rate and flap survival rate. TM flaps are versatile in repairing palate defects of all sizes, in all regions of the palate. Cosmetic deformity created from TM flap harvest may be addressed using cranioplasty implant placement, either primarily or during a second stage procedure.

Keywords

reconstructive surgical procedures - palate - temporal muscle
 

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