The 2-piece Le Fort I osteotomy for cranial base access: An evaluation of 3 patients

Purpose: This article discusses the use of the 2-piece Le Fort I osteotomy to gain access to the cranial base and the authors' experiences with this technique. Methods: Medical records of patients who required surgical access to the cranial base were retrospectively reviewed, and demographic data, procedures done, postoperative results, and complications were recorded. Results: Nine patients underwent a 2-piece Le Fort I osteotomy. Complications included development of a pseudoaneurysm of the internal carotid artery, in 1 patient, 2 cerebrospinal fluid leaks, both of which resolved, and 1 patient who lost 2 teeth and some associated bone. Conclusion: The 2-piece Le Fort I osteotomy provides excellent access to the clival region of the cranial base with minimal complications. (C) 2000 American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons.