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J Neurol Surg B Skull Base 2018; 79(S 04): S291-S299
DOI: 10.1055/s-0038-1668158
WFSBS 2016
Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Complications of Nasoseptal Flap Reconstruction: A Systematic Review

Philippe Lavigne
1   Department of Otolaryngology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
,
Daniel L. Faden
1   Department of Otolaryngology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
,
Eric W. Wang
1   Department of Otolaryngology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
,
Carl H. Snyderman
1   Department of Otolaryngology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
› Author Affiliations
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Publication History

30 April 2018

07 July 2018

Publication Date:
20 August 2018 (online)

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Abstract

Objective The nasoseptal flap (NSF) is considered the primary vascularized flap for reconstruction of dural defects with endoscopic endonasal surgery (EES) of the skull base. However, the complications and morbidities associated with this reconstructive flap are poorly understood. This article presents a systematic review of the complications and morbidities related to the use of the NSF in skull base surgery.

Method A systematic review of the literature based on published guidelines was performed to identify potential complications and morbidities related to the NSF. The MEDLINE and Embase databases were searched from January 1, 1950 to February 5, 2018.

Results Twenty-seven articles were identified. Reported complications were as follows: NSF necrosis (4 studies; [0–1.3%]), mucocele formation (5 studies; [0–3.6%]), septal perforation (6 studies, [0–14.4%]), nasal dorsum collapse (2 studies, [0.7–5.8%]), effects on quality of life (QoL) (8 studies), and olfactory loss (11 studies).

Conclusion Although complications associated with the NSF may be underreported in the literature, the NSF appears to be a safe and reliable reconstructive flap in EES of the skull base.

Keywords

systematic review - skull base surgery - nasoseptal flap - complications - reconstruction
 

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