Inferior Maxillectomy and Resection of Tumour of the Upper Alveolus

Maxillary tumours have historically proved difficult to adequately treat surgically without significant morbidity. Among the reasons is the close anatomic proximity of the maxilla to many vital structures, including the skull base, orbits, infratemporal fossa, pterygopalatine fossa, and nasal cavity. Also, until the advent of CT and MRI, accurate preoperative classification and visualization of maxillary pathology was difficult, requiring exploratory surgery, and unexpectedly aggressive surgical resection, classically with a Weber-Fergusson approach, might be needed. The advent of three-dimensional imaging modalities has allowed surgeons to accurately plan a more conservative surgical resection when indicated [1]. This chapter discusses inferior maxillectomy for the operative management of pathology of the upper alveolus and palate.