[The application of the temporalis myofacial flap in the reconstruction of craniofacial oncologic defects].

Objective: To explore the application of the temporalis myofacial flap(TMF) in the reconstruction of craniofacial oncologic defects.
Method: Ten cases with craniofacial neoplasms were treated surgically using TMF to reconstruct oncologic defects. TMF during 2000-2003. was used to reconstruct cranial base in 3 cases, oropharynx in 5 cases and orbital defects in 2 cases. TMF was designed according to size and locus of defect. The sizes of the flaps ranged from 3 cm x 4 cm to 8 cm x 10 cm.
Result: During follow-up of 8 to 50 months, there were no cases of flap loss, no cranial infection or cerebrospinal fluid leak in cranial base reconstructions, no speech or swallowing disturbance in oropharyx reconstruction. All patients were satisfied with appearance with orbital reconstruction.
Conclusion: TMF is a useful and reliable flap for reconstruct the craniofacial oncologic defects.