The surgical management of extensive nasopharyngeal angiofibromas with the infratemporal fossa approach

Abstract

Large juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibromas are a therapeutic challenge because of their relation to major vasculature and cranial nerves at the base of the skull, and their propensity for recurrence. A classification scheme based on the growth pattern of this tumor is proposed to help the surgeon choose a procedure to access this lesion. This report describes the results obtained with the surgical removal of large (class III and IV) nasopharyngeal angiofibromas through the infratemporal fossa approach. Fourteen patients were cured and one individual developed a recurrence which was totally removed at a second procedure. Surgical morbidity was minimal and there was no mortality. Radiation therapy was necessary in only one patient who had tumor infiltration of the cavernous sinus.