Temporal bone encephalocele —diagnosis and treatment

Encephaloceles of the temporal bone are encountered infrequently by the otolaryngologist and, therefore, may be misdiagnosed. Serious sequelae and central nervous system infections may result with inadequate management. A series of 15 recent cases are presented and discussed in relationship to etiology and surgical management. Transmastoid and middle cranial fossa approaches will be delineated along with the rationale and techniques for each. The use of pedicle and free tissue flaps, as well as autogenous bone and synthetics will be outlined.