Open nasopharyngectomy – maxillary swing approach

Abstract

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma is treated with definitive radiotherapy +/- chemotherapy depending on the stage of disease. Surgery serves as a means of salvage for persistent or recurrent diseases. Maxillary swing approach offers an anterolateral approach to tumours in the nasopharynx, ipsilateral parapharyngeal space including retropharyngeal lymph nodes and skull base invasion. Tumours abutting on the petrous part of internal carotid artery can be safely removed after identification and protection of the internal carotid artery. Exposed skull base bone and internal carotid artery post tumour extirpation warrant coverage with well vascularized muscle flap such as the vastus lateralis muscle. Attention to details peri-operation and meticulous tissue handling can help to prevent life-threatening complications post operation.