Reconstruction of the cranial base.

The cranial base is a complex boundary between intracranial and extracranial anatomic structures. Adequate reconstruction of the basicranium depends on the location, size, and nature of the defect. A reconstructive ladder can be built on a few basic principles: coverage of vital structures, separation of the intra- and extradural spaces, procedural simplicity, and aesthetics. Individual consideration should be given to reconstruction of bone, soft tissue, dura, and cerebrospinal fluid spaces.