Endoscopic Temporalis Tendon Extension (ETTE)

Abstract

Many techniques have been proposed to restore facial symmetry in facial nerve palsies. This study presents our surgical approach called Endoscopic Temporalis Tendon Extension (ETTE). After nasotracheal intubation, a 4 cm skin incision is made at the nasolabial fold. Under endoscopic view, the medial face of the masseter muscle is detached from the mandibular ramus. The coronoid process is then sectioned by Piezosurgery®. Finally, a fascia lata graft is suspended between the temporalis tendon and the orbicularis oris. ETTE is a mixed technique, with a static suspension component and a dynamic contraction one. The preservation of the temporalis muscle insertion in temporal fossa allows for an optimal contraction. A fascia lata graft is necessary for reasons of length. The scar produced by the nasolabial incision allows to recreate the missing nasolabial fold. The endoscopic assistance provides greater precision during the procedure and entails a shorter learning curve.

Keywords: Dynamic rehabilitation techniques; Endoscopic assistance; Facial nerve palsy; Fascia lata graft; Orbicularis oris modiolus; Temporalis muscle tendon.