Classification of facial translocation approach to the skull base.

OBJECTIVE

To categorize a surgical approach to the skull base.

DESIGN

Retrospective assessment of an evolving concept pertaining to the facial translocation procedure.

SETTING

Schematic/conceptual.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

To allow favorable surgical reach of the essential anatomy at the cranial base with the potential for functional and esthetic reconstruction.

INTERVENTION

Systematic craniofacial disassembly.

RESULTS

The facial translocation technique of modular craniofacial disassembly of facial units permits a satisfactory match between a skull base tumor and a selected surgical approach. Individual units have a complementary relationship to one another, allowing an expansion of the surgical approach as needed.