Temporalis muscle reattachment by using transosseus running suture along superior temporal line: technical note

Abstract

Introduction: After reattachment of the temporalis muscle, atrophy of the temporalis muscle may occur, which is associated with difficulty in chewing function. To prevent this, numerous surgical modifications have been made to allow reattachment of the temporalis muscle with minimal damage. Methods: We describe the technical details of surgical modification for reattachment of the temporalis muscle in 12 cases treated surgically in our department. Results: We used a transosseous continuous suture along the superior temporal line as a base for reattachment of the muscle. The temporalis muscle was successfully reattached in all observed cases. No infections, dislocations, muscle tears, or significant temporal atrophy with depression occurred in any of the observed cases. In the author's technique, the temporalis muscle is reconstructed anatomically at the level of the superior temporal line. At follow-up after approximately 24 months, all patients were satisfied with the cosmetic result. Conclusions: The use of running sutures along the superior temporal line is a safe, simple, and successful alternative for reattachment of the temporal muscles in patients undergoing surgery for intracranial pathology. The surgery takes slightly longer but does not require additional costs. This technique minimizes the risk of atrophy of the temporal muscles. With this technique, muscle tension was maintained with good stabilization and the cosmetic result is also satisfactory.