Endoscopy-assisted iliotibial tract harvesting for skull base reconstruction: feasibility on a cadaveric model

During the last years, multiple methods and a wide set of materials for skull base reconstruction have been described. In our experience, the ideal graft for duraplasty is the iliotibial tract due to its favorable characteristics in terms of thickness, pliability, and strength. In this report, we show the iliotibial tract-harvesting technique under endoscopic guidance with a minimally invasive approach using a cadaveric model. Two longitudinal incisions of 1 cm each were made at 4 cm down a line drawn between the anterior-superior iliac spine and the lateral margin of patella at the extremities of the middle third of the thigh. By using a set of instruments for endoscopic face-lifting, the graft was easily set up and harvested. The endoscopic approach is associated with less visible scars, but longer operative time in comparison with open traditional procedure. The pros and cons in terms of morbidity need to be evaluated by further studies on actual cases.