title: An audit of 50 bitemporal flaps in primary facial trauma.
abstract: The bitemporal (bicoronal) flap is a well recognised technique for exposing the skull and upper face. Prospectively collected data over a 5-year period in which this technique was used for access in primary craniomaxillofacial trauma was analysed. Emphasis was placed on indications, complications and outcome. A total of 50 cases were audited. 84% were male. 74% had sustained midface or frontal bone trauma, 24% had lateral upper face injuries. Only 1 patient had a penetrating missile injury. Consistent complications of the procedure were altered sensation at the vertex in the early postoperative period and a small area of wound breakdown over the suture knot in the galea. In all cases the altered sensation greatly improved or resolved, 12% developed a wound infection, however, 83% of these were trivial requiring no active treatment. There was an isolated case of pressure necrosis over a drain site. 12% had a demonstrable transient deficit of the temporal branch of the facial nerve, all of which improved.
authors.affiliation: Oral and Maxillofacial Unit, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, UK.
authors.forename: D A
authors.initials: DA
authors.lastname: Mitchell
authors.forename: N A
authors.initials: NA
authors.lastname: Barnard
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Bainton
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008446:Maxillofacial Injuries / Q000601:surgery*; D008485:Medical Audit; D008875:Middle Aged; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012535:Scalp / Q000601:surgery*; D012678:Sensation Disorders / Q000209:etiology; D013524:Surgical Flaps / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*; D013703:Temporal Muscle / Q000601:surgery