Salvation of Temporalis Muscle in Cranioplasty: A Technique Note

Abstract

Objective: The preservation of the temporalis muscle during cranioplasty is very important for postoperative masticatory function and aesthetics. The key technique for temporalis muscle preservation is to find the surgical plane during the operation.

Methods: In the past, the so-called antiadhesion method could not be used to find the surgical plane very well. Here, we describe a novel method for separating the temporalis muscle and dura through an illustrative case, utilizing the natural space of the temporalis muscle at the bony border attachment point.

Results: The temporalis muscle is stretched by a wire saw to find the surgical plane quickly and accurately, maximizing the preservation of the temporalis muscle without damaging the dura.

Conclusions: The technical effect is ideal, the operation is simple, and the technique is suitable for promotion.

Keywords: Cranioplasty; Decompressive craniectomy; Surgical plane; Temporal muscle.