title: Combined approach for extensive maxillectomy: technique and cadaveric dissection.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Currently described endoscopic techniques for subtotal resections of the maxilla include endoscopic medial maxillectomy and extended endoscopic medial maxillectomy; however, a complete resection of the maxilla is sometimes warranted. We describe a combined transoral and endoscopic technique for total and subtotal maxillectomy in an attempt to decrease the morbidity of traditional approaches.
  
  
  METHODS
  Technical note, Feasibility, Human cadaveric dissection.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Ten total and subtotal maxillectomies were performed in human specimens without the need of facial incisions or transfixion of the nasal septum. The pterygopalatine and infratemporal fossas were accessed and dissected in all cases.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  A combined transoral and endoscopic approach is feasible and can be used in selected patients when other minimally endoscopic techniques are not indicated. The benefits of no facial incisions and/or transfixion of the nasal septum, potential improvement in hemostasis, and visual magnification may help to decrease the morbidity of traditional open approaches.
authors.affiliation: Department of Otolaryngology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
authors.forename: Carlos M
authors.initials: CM
authors.lastname: Rivera-Serrano
authors.forename: Ramon
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Terre-Falcon
authors.forename: Umamaheswar
authors.initials: U
authors.lastname: Duvvuri
mesh_terms: D002102:Cadaver; D004210:Dissection / Q000379:methods*; D019723:Endoscopes; D004867:Equipment Design; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D006801:Humans; D008437:Maxilla / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D008441:Maxillary Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery; D009055:Mouth; D009300:Nasal Septum / Q000601:surgery; D057605:Natural Orifice Endoscopic Surgery / Q000379:methods*; D009666:Nose; D013517:Otorhinolaryngologic Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods*