Transantral endoscopic approach for the treatment of lesions affecting the maxillary nerve.

Abstract

Surgical approaches to skull base lesions that affect the maxillary nerve are complex, due to deep location and presence of relevant neurovascular structures surrounding this area. We propose the transantral endoscopic approach (TEA) for the treatment of lesions affecting the maxillary nerve or its vicinity. More specifically, the ones that are located anterior to the foramen rotundum. This technique represents a minimally invasive treatment option for these kind of cranial base lesions. It offers optimal visualisation similar to the endonasal approach, whereas less dissection is required.