Calvarial Reconstruction With Autologous Sagittal Split Rib Bone Graft and Latissimus Dorsi Rib Myoosseocutaneous Free Flap.

Objective: Cranioplasty is essential because cranial defects cause cosmetic and functional problems, and neurologic sequalae in patients. However, reconstruction options are limited in patients with unfavorable conditions. This study aimed to review our experience with skull defect reconstruction using autogenous bone with sagittal split rib bone grafts or latissimus dorsi rib myoosseocutaneous free flaps.

Methods: Patients who underwent autogenous bone graft for cranial defect coverage from December 2011 to November 2015 at our institution were reviewed. Rib bone graft or latissimus dorsi rib myoosseocutaneous free flaps were done to cover the defect. The patient follow-up period ranged from 3 months to 7 years.

Results: There were 6 patients, with 9 surgeries. Two cases of latissimus dorsi rib myoosseocutaneous free flap procedures were performed in 2 patients and 7 sagittal split rib bone grafts were performed in 6 patients. There were no postoperative infections in any patients, despite 4 patients had previous surgical site infection histories. Two patients with neurologic sequalae showed improvement after the surgeries.

Conclusion: Sagittal split rib bone graft and latissimus dorsi rib myoosseocutaneous free flap procedures could be fine options for calvarial reconstruction of defects under the unfavorable conditions of bilateral cranial defects or previous infection history.