About Video

This video demonstrates the initial incision is made along the soft palate through the superior constrictor muscles until the para­pharyngeal fat is identified. Next, the incision is carried laterally down to the tongue base following the medial pterygoid muscle. At this point, the lingual nerve may be identified and care must be taken to avoid injury. Blunt dissection in the parapharyngeal fat using the cautery tip is helpful to identify blood vessels. Vessels that are encountered may be managed with hemoclips or electrocautery. Next, the inferior margin is incised along the base of tongue. This allows medial rotation of the tumor. The stylopharyngeus and styloglossus muscles are divided to complete the resection of the deep margin. Finally, the medial margin is incised along the posterior pharyngeal wall. Keeping close attention to the correct anatomical configuration of the resected specimen, the tumor is removed by the assistant and the margins are appropriately marked by the primary surgeon.