Skull Base 2011; 21(3): 185-188
DOI: 10.1055/s-0031-1275260
ORIGINAL ARTICLE

© Thieme Medical Publishers

Endoscopy-Assisted Iliotibial Tract Harvesting for Skull Base Reconstruction: Feasibility on a Cadaveric Model

Andrea Bolzoni Villaret1 , Alberto Schreiber1 , Paolo Battaglia2 , Maurizio Bignami2
  • 1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Brescia, Brescia
  • 2University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
22 March 2011 (online)

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ABSTRACT

During the last years, multiple methods and a wide set of materials for skull base reconstruction have been described. In our experience, the ideal graft for duraplasty is the iliotibial tract due to its favorable characteristics in terms of thickness, pliability, and strength. In this report, we show the iliotibial tract-harvesting technique under endoscopic guidance with a minimally invasive approach using a cadaveric model. Two longitudinal incisions of 1 cm each were made at 4 cm down a line drawn between the anterior-superior iliac spine and the lateral margin of patella at the extremities of the middle third of the thigh. By using a set of instruments for endoscopic face-lifting, the graft was easily set up and harvested. The endoscopic approach is associated with less visible scars, but longer operative time in comparison with open traditional procedure. The pros and cons in terms of morbidity need to be evaluated by further studies on actual cases.

REFERENCES

Andrea Bolzoni VillaretM.D. 

Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Brescia

Piazza Spedali Civili 1, 25123 Brescia, Italy

Email: dr.bolton@libero.it