Giant Cell Tumor of Temporal Bone: Resection and Reconstruction of TMJ

Background: This series of 16 cases with skull base GCT invading TMJ were surgically treated from 2008 to 2011. To improve the function of mastication, the cranial flap was applied to reconstruct the TMJ.

Material and Method: All patients were demonstrated by CT and MRI imaging. The average age of the patients was 36.4 years. In all cases, a transzygomatic approach was used, and the tumors were removed intracranially. The cranial flap and part of temporal muscle were applied to reconstruct the TMJ acetabulum.

Result: Total tumor removal was archived in all cases. No mortality or surgical complications occurred. The TMJ function was preserved to nearly normal status.

Conclusion: Total resection of middle cranial fossa with TMJ acetabulum is necessary in skull base GCT patients. It is a good alternative to reconstruction of the TMJ using a cranial flap.