The pericranial flap for reconstruction of anterior skull base defects

In 1981, the senior author first reported the use of the pericranial flap for support of the brain following resection of the anterior skull base. Since the initial report, considerable experience has been gained with this flap. It is currently deployed via a bifrontal craniotomy and is placed primarily as a support beneath the frontal lobes. The pericranial flap may also be used to repair dural laceration and defects. The sinonasal surface is routinely grafted with split-thickness skin or dermis. This technique provides an excellent barrier between the sinonasal cavity and the cerebrospinal fluid, establishing a tough, fibrous platform. Herniation of intracranial contents has not occurred. One major complication has been reported in which radiation necrosis occurred during postoperative therapy, leading to progressive devitalization of the pericranial flap. Ultimately, dural repair and closure with a latissimus dorsi free flap was required. The pericranial flap repair of anterior skull base defects has a 90% complication-free and 95% overall success rate. It is simple and extremely effective. Bone grafting has not been necessary in our experience.