Middle Turbinate Mucosal Flap in Endoscopic Skull Base Reconstruction

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Otolaryngology
• Surgical Reconstruction

Background:

• Endoscopic skull base surgery requires robust reconstruction techniques.
• Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage and infection are significant post-operative risks.
• The pedicled middle turbinate mucosal flap is an emerging option for skull base repair.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the indications, surgical techniques, and outcomes of using a pedicled middle turbinate mucosal flap.
• To assess the efficacy of this flap in multi-layer endoscopic skull base reconstruction.
• To determine the complication rates and recovery associated with this reconstructive method.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of four patients undergoing endonasal endoscopic surgery.
• Multi-layer skull base reconstruction utilizing a pedicled middle turbinate mucosal flap combined with fascia lata, artificial dura mater, and fat.
• Post-operative assessment during a follow-up period exceeding one year.

Main Results:

• No reconstruction-associated complications, including CSF leakage or infection, were observed in the four cases.
• All patients experienced excellent recovery following the surgical intervention.
• The pedicled middle turbinate mucosal flap facilitated successful multi-layer reconstruction.

Conclusions:

• The pedicled middle turbinate mucosal flap is a valuable technique for endoscopic skull base reconstruction.
• This method offers advantages such as rapid healing and a reduced incidence of CSF leakage.
• Satisfactory outcomes and excellent recovery highlight the effectiveness of this flap in skull base repair.