University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston;
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston
Objective: Reconstruction of lateral skull base defects remains a challenge. The pectoralis major myocutaneous flap (PMF) has been a true workhorse in head and neck reconstruction for decades, yet application to the reconstruction of lateral skull base defects has been restricted to defects below the external auditory canal because of perceived difficulty in achieving sufficient flap length to ensure flap viability as well as a tension-free, water-tight closure. We present our experience using the PMF for the reconstruction of composite lateral temporal bone defects extending beyond the temporal line.