Free-Flap Reconstruction of Skull Base and Orbital Defects

Orbital and anterior skull base defects present a significant challenge for reconstruction due to the complexity of the anatomy and the need for separation of intracranial and extracranial contents in this area. While endoscopic techniques have revolutionized the treatment of many anterior skull base defects, microvascular free tissue transfer is a viable option for large volume defects not suitable for traditional open approaches or for cases where endoscopic techniques have failed. The various free tissue transfer techniques for anterior skull base and orbit, as well as the advantages and disadvantages, are reviewed.