An animal model for maxillary reconstruction using a temporalis muscle flap

Abstract

Purpose: This article describes the feasibility of using the temporalis muscle flap to cover a defect after maxillectomy in cats and to evaluate the clinical healing process of this flap in the oral environment. Materials and Methods: The material consisted of 30 cats of the Felis catus species. A standardized unilateral maxillectomy was performed and the resulting defect immediately closed with a pedicled temporalis flap. The healing of this flap was clinically assessed at determined intervals. Results: Healing of the temporalis flap in the oral environment of cats progressed from an inflammatory to a proliferative phase, with eventual coverage by a smooth oral mucosa 18 to 24 weeks after surgery. Conclusions: The cat proved to be a useful model for this type of study.