Anatomical Basis of the Zygomatic-Transmandibular Approach: Operative Video

Abstract

Tumor growth in infratemporal fossa (ITF) and parapharyngeal space (PPS) is generally slow and generates very few clinical manifestations, so it is not uncommon for tumors to reach large dimensions at the time of diagnosis, making necessary to perform ample approaches. In zygomatic-transmandibular approach (ZTMA), the access of the ITF and PPS is obtained by a combination of a pterional craniotomy plus a zygomatic-mandibular osteotomy. Tumor excision is achieved by its initial dissection from all of the neurovascular structures of the middle fossa by the neurosurgical team and the final resection by the head and neck team from below. In the first part of this video, we present a brief anatomical–surgical description of the ITF and PPS and in the second part, we show case of a trigeminal schwannoma that could be successfully removed through a ZTMA. Using this approach, an ample and safe exposure of the ITF and PPS is achieved, without affecting the chewing or facial nerve function and with excellent cosmetic results, so it can be considered as a reliable surgical option, particularly in cases of giant tumors that affect these regions ([Figs. 1] and [2]).

The link to the video can be found at: https://youtu.be/oxVFhzT8HsQ.

Keywords

infratemporal fossa - parapharyngeal space - skull base surgery - trigeminal schwannoma - zygomatic-transmandibular approach

Publication History

Received: 11 September 2020

Accepted: 09 January 2021

Article published online:
03 May 2021