The versatility of pericranial flaps

The pericranium is the source of multiple, dependable, well-vascularized flaps which are of use to the plastic and reconstructive surgeon for multiple defects of the face and skull. Based anteriorly, the flap can cover the entire central third of the face or be transposed intracranially to correct abnormalities of the cribriform plate and dura. Based laterally on the temporalis muscle, the flap can be turned to multiple arcs for reconstruction of the face, ear, and intracranial defects. Donor-site morbidity and complications have been minimal.