OUTCOMES OF TEMPORALIS MUSCLE FLAP RECONSTRUCTION FOR MAXILLARY DEFECTS IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL IN PAKISTAN

Abstract

Background:
Maxillary and intraoral defects resulting from trauma or tumor resection require reliable reconstructive techniques, particularly in resource-limited settings. The temporalis muscle flap (TMF) is a versatile and well-vascularized option; however, local outcome data remain limited.

Methods:
This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at Mardan Medical Complex, Pakistan. A total of 114 patients aged 10–70 years undergoing immediate TMF reconstruction were included. Data on demographics, defect characteristics, and postoperative complications were collected. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 23, with chi-square or Fisher’s exact test applied to assess associations (p ≤ 0.05).

Results:
Most patients were male and middle-aged, with malignancy as the most common indication. Postoperative complications were infrequent: hematoma (6.1%), partial flap necrosis (4.4%), total flap loss (3.5%), alopecia (9.6%), and nerve injury (2.6%). No significant associations were observed between complications and demographic or defect-related variables.

Conclusion:
Temporalis muscle flap reconstruction demonstrates favorable outcomes with a low complication rate, supporting its role as a reliable reconstructive option, particularly in resource-limited settings.