The LeFort I transmaxillary approach to skull base tumors

This article discusses the surgical approach using the LeFort I and its variations to the extracranial skull base for removal of craniocervical lesions from the sphenoid to the fourth cervical vertebra between the carotids. Clival lesions with superior and inferior extension and nasopharyngeal lesions can be accessed by this approach. The outcome of surgical, radiation, and chemotherapeutic treatment is beyond the scope of this brief article, which focuses on the technical aspects of cranial base tumor exposure.