Total en bloc resection of the temporal bone and carotid artery for malignant tumors of the ear and temporal bone

Abstract

A technique for single stage total en bloc resection of the temporal bone and intratemporal carotid artery with immediate reconstruction has been described. This formidable procedure requires the collaborative efforts of neurotologic skull base surgeons, neurosurgeons, and head and neck surgeons. Two patients have undergone this procedure; one with squamous cell carcinoma and one with extensive basal cell carcinoma. The quality of life following this procedure is adequate and the cosmetic deformity can be minimized. Longer follow-up is necessary to determine the value and overall impact of this approach to cancer of the temporal bone on disease free interval and patient survival. Further experience with the technical aspects of this procedure should reduce the operating time, blood loss, and resultant morbidity.