The Versatility of Temporalis Muscle Flap in Reconstruction of Maxillofacial Region Defects

Introduction: The temporalis muscle flap is an axial pattern flap based on the anterior and posterior deep temporal arteries. It is most commonly utilized after maxillectomy. The temporalis flap splits into anterior and posterior halves, or the entire muscle used as a flap. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to: 1. Evaluate the esthetic and functional outcome by using temporalis muscle flap for reconstruction of intraoral defect. 2. Assess the effectiveness of temporalis muscle flap in intraoral defects. Study Design: It was a Descriptive study Setting: The study carried out at department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery King Edward Medical University / Mayo Hospital Lahore. Subjects and Methods Duration: The study was completed in six months from 1st June 2005 to 30th Nov 2005. Sample size: 30 patients who presented with intraoral defect were included in this study. Sample Technique: Nonprobability Sampling (Purposive). Results: Success rate was ninety percent in this study. Failure of flaps encountered in 10% cases especially in older and immunocompromised patients. Conclusions: Temporalis muscle flap is a good choice for most of the intraoral defects especially those in palatal and buccal region.