[A simple technique for reconstruction of anterior and middle cranial base after palliative tumor resection]

Large defects of the anterior and middle skull base resulting from extensive tumour resection should be reconstructed. Reconstruction should not only include watertight closure of the dura but also osseous reconstruction. Numerous alloplastic and autoplastic grafts have been used for this purpose. Following curative tumour resection autoplastic material is used at our institution. Autoplastic bone/however requires additional procedures, adds additional operating time, and often requires surgical recontouring because of its rigidity. Therefore we have used a simplified technique using autologous grafts for dural repair in combination with a Vitallium mesh for osseous reconstruction after palliative tumour surgery. So far this technique has been used in 10 patients with different malignancies of the anterior and middle skull base. No complications with the implant was observed. There was no operative mortality and morbidity. One postoperative meningitis was cured by antibiotics. Compared to autogenous bone the technique saved operating time, had more intraoperative flexibility, and a low complication rate with good cosmetic results.