[Operative approach to the retromaxillary space]

Area of Science:

• Otorhinolaryngology
• Surgical Oncology
• Head and Neck Anatomy

Background:

• The retromaxillary fossa is a complex anatomical region prone to various tumors.
• Accurate diagnosis of tumor origin (primary vs. secondary) is critical for effective management.
• Previous studies have not fully elucidated the optimal surgical approaches based on tumor origin.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the characteristics of tumors involving the retromaxillary fossa.
• To evaluate the efficacy of different surgical approaches based on tumor origin.
• To highlight the importance of the transfacial premaxillary approach for primary retromaxillary fossa tumors.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 59 cases of retromaxillary fossa tumors observed between 1977 and 1982.
• Detailed description of primary tumor site, direction of spread, and histological subtypes.
• Evaluation of surgical approaches in relation to tumor characteristics.

Main Results:

• Fifty-nine tumors involving the retromaxillary fossa were identified and analyzed.
• Tumor characteristics including primary site, spread patterns, and histology were documented.
• The transfacial premaxillary approach demonstrated significant advantages for tumors originating primarily within the retromaxillary fossa.

Conclusions:

• Distinguishing between primary and secondary retromaxillary fossa tumors is essential for surgical planning.
• The transfacial premaxillary approach is the recommended method for primary retromaxillary fossa tumors.
• Further research into tailored surgical strategies for this region is warranted.