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Skull Base 2000; Volume 10(Number 03): 109-118
DOI: 10.1055/s-2000-9319
Copyright © 2000 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA. Tel.: +1(212) 584-5662

Functional Outcomes of the Retromaxillary-Infratemporal Fossa Dissection for Advanced Head and Neck/Skull Base Lesions

Terry Y. Shibuya, Timothy D. Doerr, Robert H. Mathog, M.D, Don L. Burgio, Robert J. Meleca, George H. Yoo, Murali Guthikonda
  • Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery (TYS, TDD, RHM, DLB, RJM, GHY), and Department of Neurologic Surgery (MG), Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan
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Publication History

Publication Date:
31 December 2000 (online)

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ABSTRACT

The retromaxillary-infratemporal fossa (RM-ITF) dissection, using a preauricular incision, was initially popularized for the treatment of temporomandibular joint disorders, facial fractures, and orbital tumors. This approach has been expanded for the treatment of advanced head and neck and skull base tumors extending into the infratemporal fossa. We studied prospectively eight consecutive patients requiring a RM-ITF dissection. Pre- and postoperative functional outcomes measured were mastication, speech, swallowing, cranial nerve function, pain, and cosmesis. A significant reduction in pain was noted postoperatively in all patients studied. Limited changes were identified in mastication, speech, swallowing, vision, hearing, or cosmesis postoperatively. The RM-ITF dissection should be considered when resecting advanced head and neck/skull base lesions that extend into this region. We have found minimal morbidity associated with this dissection. This procedure may have a useful place in palliation of patients with incurable pain caused by tumor invasion into the infratemporal fossa.

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