A closer examination of the retromandibular subparotid approach: Surgical technique and anatomical considerations with a special focus on the angular tract. A cadaveric study and a technical note

Abstract

Several approaches have been described for the surgical management of condylar fractures. Although there is no consensus on the best surgical technique, the retromandibular approach appears to be the most common reported in the literature. This approach is traditionally performed via a retromandibular incision and a transparotid route. An alternative technique to this approach entails a subparotid passage with the gland lifted antero-superiorly and no intraglandular dissection. This modification has been designed to reduce the risk of direct injury of the facial nerve branches as well as the risk of post-operative salivary fistula. The purpose of this technical report was to provide a “step-by-step” description of the retromandibular subparotid approach as performed in our department with particular emphasis on the relevant anatomically critical structures.