title: Le Fort I down-fracture of the maxilla: application to benign antral neoplasm.
abstract: Benign neoplasms of the maxillo-facial region require different treatment than do malignant lesions. Conservation of adjacent tissues is vital in order to optimize postoperative function and esthetics. The Le Fort I down-fracture technique is a historically proven approach for resecting benign neoplasms involving the nasal and para-nasal cavities. The Le Fort I, as practised today, is transoral and placed superior to the dento-alveolar processes of the maxilla. Surgical access, therefore, need not result in a skin scar nor loss of dental structures. Postoperative recovery to full function is rapid. The elegance and versatility of the Le Fort I down-fracture technique is discussed with reference to the report of a large, intra-antral benign odontogenic neoplasm.
authors.affiliation: Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.
authors.forename: J E
authors.initials: JE
authors.lastname: Armstrong
authors.forename: A K
authors.initials: AK
authors.lastname: Bhardwaj
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008437:Maxilla / Q000601:surgery*; D008444:Maxillary Sinus Neoplasms / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D009810:Odontoma / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery; D010027:Osteotomy / Q000379:methods*; D010255:Paranasal Sinus Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery*; D011859:Radiography