Principles of lateral craniofacial reconstruction: Anatomic defect-based approach to reconstruction

Abstract

Lateral craniofacial skeleton is a complex anatomical area and presents unique challenges for reconstruction. Important aesthetic regions for lateral facial region include ear, lateral aspect of the forehead subunit, temple, cheek subunits - zygomatic and mandibular, and neck. Lateral craniofacial skeleton includes the zygomatic process, zygoma, temporal bone, mandible - coronoid, condyle, temporomandibular joint, ramus, angle and posterior body, maxilla. Characteristics of the involved structures must be thoroughly understood and the resultant consequences when these structures are removed. For reconstructive purposes, the defects can be classified into auricle only, cutaneous defect, contour with or without cutaneous defects and extended contour defects. Options for reconstruction can be divided into local flaps such as cervicofacial rotation flap, pedicled flaps, and free tissue transfers. This chapter provides important considerations and anatomic defect-based approach to the reconstruction of the lateral craniofacial reconstruction.