Hemifacial degloving approach to tumours in the infratemporal and pterygopalatine fossae: A preliminary report

A new approach to tumours in the infratemporal or pterygopalatine fossa is presented. Through a midline skin incision, one side of the face from the forehead to the neck is completely degloved. Zygomatic and mandibular osteotomies improve access. All mimic muscles and the facial nerve are included in the elevated flap. This approach provides a widely exposed field from the temporal fossa to the neck without damage to major vessels or nerves other than the supra- and infraorbital nerves. Direct access to tumours in the infratemporal or pterygopalatine fossa is facilitated, thus making tumour resection easier, safer and more reliable. Details of this approach are described.