Endoscopic resection of nasopharyngeal angiofibromas by combined transnasal and transoral routes

Abstract

Purpose: To determine the role of endoscopic surgery in decreasing intraoperative bleeding, morbidity, and hospitalization period of juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma resection and to describe combined endoscopic transnasal and transoral approaches. Patients and Methods: Twelve cases of juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma diagnosed by endoscopic examination, computed tomography, and angiography were selected for endoscopic resection. Tumor staging ranged from stage I A to II B. Ten patients underwent preoperative selective arterial embolization, and in 1 case selective arterial ligation was used. In general, the tumors were approached endoscopically through nasal and oral cavities with 0° and 30° 4-mm telescopes without any incision and no packing at their termination. Results: The patients were followed by endoscopy and computed tomography. There was a dramatic decrease in intraoperative bleeding and postoperative morbidity. No early postoperative complications were seen. Two recurrences were observed in 12 patients up to a mean follow-up of 15 months. Conclusions: Minimal bleeding, decreased morbidity, and shorter hospitalization period were the main reasons that prompted us to use endoscopic technique for the removal of juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma. Adding transoral endoscopic approach to the transnasal endoscopic approach provides 2-sided exposure and appreciate access to angiofibroma.