Reconstruction of the skull base: a review of personal techniques

With increasing technological and surgical sophistication in cranial base and craniofacial surgery, reconstructive efforts are challenged to provide a reliable means of compartmentalisation. Some improvised methods of basal reconstruction with vascularised pedicle flap are described in this presentation. The dependable blood supply, long length, ease of harvesting and the ability to alter the arc of rotation of the described flaps make them versatile for lining skull base. The flaps may be used to cover defects, may be folded for bulk and may be used to carry blood supply to poorly vascularised recipient sites. The techniques are presented.