Cranial Suture Anchor Temporalis Resuspension: A New Technique to Reconstruct Temporal Hollowing After Craniotomy

Proper temporalis resuspension following craniotomy or craniectomy is necessary to prevent significant temporofacial deformity. Several methods of temporalis reconstruction have been described with varying success; currently there are no reports of suture anchor utilization.

A patient is presented displaying successful temporalis resuspension using suture anchor fixation. An incision was made in the temporal hair-bearing scalp to access and lengthen the retracted temporalis under direct visualization. Stab incisions were then made in the scalp to expose the superior temporal line, where suture anchors were placed for muscle fixation. After confirming appropriate vectors for muscle resuspension, 1 suture arm was passed through a subgaleal tunnel to capture the temporalis and the other was fixated to the temporoparietal skull. The suture anchors were secured and the incisions were closed in layers.

A 36-year-old female with history of decompressive craniectomy for hemorrhagic stroke presented with significant temporal hollowing. Her temporalis was retracted with a noticeable defect on frontal view and bulging over the zygomatic arch. The patient underwent temporalis resuspension as described with durable correction resembling her premorbid state. The buried suture anchors were nonpalpable.

Temporal hollowing after craniotomy is a difficult contour deformity to correct. In the presented patient, reconstruction with temporalis elevation and suture anchor resuspension was found to be an effective technique with excellent cosmetic outcome. The efficiency of suture anchor placement, postoperative maintenance of muscle tension, and nonpalpable profile of the buried suture anchors suggest comparable efficacy to plate fixation and suture-only techniques.