Transparotid approach for tumor excision from the infratemporal space in temporomandibular joint reconstruction: a 3-year follow-up

Abstract

Surgery for tumors extending into the infratemporal fossa requires adequate exposure to identify and protect vital structures. We present a patient who had, at some time in the past, been treated by condylar resection of the right temporomandibular joint (TMJ) because of a pigmented villonodular synovitis. The condyle had been replaced with a standard reconstruction plate that had eroded deep into the skull base. Prosthetic reconstruction of the TMJ was performed 1.5 years later after renewed bone tumor excision from the infratemporal space. The standard preauricular and submandibular approaches for implantation of a total TMJ prosthesis did not offer adequate access for tumor removal from the infratemporal fossa. The tumor was excised successfully through an additional transparotid approach.