Introduction: The pterygopalatine fossa (PPF) is a small area centrally located in the head, with many important vascular and nervous structures crammed together. This makes it surgically important. Although there are previous reports on the anatomy of the PPF, a detailed and schematic description focusing in the microsugical endoscopic anatomy is lacking.
Methods: We dissected six PPF in three cadaveric specimens prepared with intravascular injection of colored material. An endoscopic endonasal approach, including a wide nasoantral window and removal of the posterior antrum wall, provided access to the PPF.
Results: Our results using an endoscopic approach we identified the IMAX, V2, foramen rotundum, GPN and their relation within skull base. Also identified a pyramidal shaped bone formed by vidian nerve and its apex marks the ICA.
Conclusions: A Clear Understanding Of The Anatomy Of The Endoscopic Endonasal Approach to PPF Region Is Essential In The Planning And Safe Execution.
Patient Care: Ressection of lesions that are within the PPF.
Learning Objectives: PPF by an endoscopic endonasal approach