MICROSURGERY FOR CRANIAL BASE TUMORS

Local or regional flaps usually are sufficient for reconstruction of d efects of the cranial base. In some cases, however, free-tissue transf er may be the best or the only choice. Reasons for choosing free-tissu e transfer over other methods of reconstruction include previous radia tion, previous surgery, Limited are of rotation of pedicle flaps, lowe r complication and failure rates of free flaps, and specific tissue re quirements that only can be met with a free flay. The anatomy, availab le flap choices, indications, and technical considerations applicable to cranial base reconstruction with microvascular surgery are discusse d.