Skull base erosion resulting from primary tumors of the temporomandibular joint and skull base region: our classification and reconstruction experience

Publication date: Available online 3 January 2018
Source:Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Author(s): Min-jie Chen, Chi Yang, Ji-si Zheng, Guo Bai, Zi-xiang Han, Yi-wen Wang
Objectiveto introduce our classification and reconstruction protocol for skull base erosions in the temporomandibular joint and skull base (TMJ-SB) region.Materials and MethodsThe patients with neoplasms in the TMJ-SB region treated from January 2006 to March 2017 were reviewed. Skull base erosion was classified into three types according to the size of the defect.ResultsWe included 33 patients, of whom 5 (15.2%) had type I defects (including 3 in whom free fat grafts were placed and 2 in whom deep temporal fascial fat flaps [DTFFF] were placed). Eight patients (24.2%) had type II defects, and all of the patients received DTFFFs. A total of 20 patients (60.6%) had type III defects, including 17 in whom autogenous bone grafts were placed, 1 in whom titanium mesh was placed, and 2 who received total alloplastic joints. The mean follow-up period was 50 months. All of the patients exhibited stable occlusion and good facial symmetry. No recurrence was noted.ConclusionOur classification and reconstruction principles allowed reliable morpho-functional skull base reconstruction.



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