Frontal sinus obliteration using a laterally based pedicled pericranial flap.

OBJECTIVE

Fractures of the frontal sinus represent one of the more uncommon injuries of the maxillofacial skeleton. In an effort to avoid potential mucocele formation, frontal sinus obliteration has been put forward as the treatment of choice when there has been significant disruption of normal frontal sinus drainage. Traditionally, sinus obliteration has been accomplished with nonvascularized free adipose tissue or bone grafts and a variety of alloplastic materials. We developed a laterally based pedicled pericranial flap to accomplish frontal sinus obliteration.

STUDY DESIGN/

METHODS

A total of 10 consecutive patients underwent obliteration of the frontal sinus with a vascularized, pedicled, laterally based pericranial flap. The patients were clinically followed prospectively to ascertain whether any adverse effects could be detected.

RESULTS

With a follow-up ranging from 6 months to 2 years, we have observed no adverse effects in any of the patients in whom this procedure was performed.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on our preliminary results, we believe that the laterally based pedicled pericranial flap appears to provide readily available vascularized tissue, with no distant donor morbidity. It represents an inexpensive, safe, and effective modality that should be considered when treating this type of injury.