Salvation of Temporalis Muscle in Cranioplasty: A Technique Note

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.

Automated summary

During cranioplasty, preserving the temporalis muscle is crucial for postoperative masticatory function and aesthetics. The key technique involves finding the surgical plane. Previous anti-adhesion methods were not effective in finding the surgical plane. In this study, a novel method utilizing the natural space of the temporalis muscle at the bony border attachment point was described, which allowed for quick and accurate identification of the surgical plane while preserving the temporalis muscle and avoiding damage to the dura.