title: Transoral odontoidectomy.
abstract: The transoral approach for odontoidectomy is described in detail, and the operating room setup and surgical positioning are demonstrated. We also discuss our methods of retractor placement and techniques for optimal surgical exposure. The microsurgical technique used for decompression is presented in detail. The surgical pearls and pitfalls of transoral odontoidectomy, learned from a 70-case experience, are described and illustrated.
authors.affiliation: Department of Neurosurgery, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30308, USA. praveen_mummaneni@emoryhealthcare.org
authors.forename: Praveen V
authors.initials: PV
authors.lastname: Mummaneni
authors.forename: Regis W
authors.initials: RW
authors.lastname: Haid
mesh_terms: D007839:Functional Laterality; D006801:Humans; D009809:Odontoid Process / Q000601:surgery*; D010614:Pharynx / Q000601:surgery; D011187:Posture; D013514:Surgical Procedures, Operative / Q000379:methods*