[The anatomical study of the pterygopalatine fossa under endoscopy via the nasal cavity approach].

OBJECTIVE: To provide a basic anatomical study of clinical endoscopic surgical approach, we investigated the pterygopalatine fossa anatomy through lateral wall of the nasal cavity approach under endoscopy. METHOD: To observe important symbols and the neurovascular structure and its relations with the surrounding structure of pterygopalatine fossa, we dissect ten fresh cadaveric heads via lateral wall of the nasal cavity approach under endoscopy. RESULT: (1) The anatomical relations between pterygopalatine fossa and the surrounding structure were complicated, and internal maxillary artery and its branches were variate greatly. (2) Sphenopalatine foramen, infraorbital canal, foramen rotundum and pterygoid canal were the important symbol of bone of pterygopalatine fossa, and pterygopalatine fossa could be used as an access into the infratemporal fossa and sphenoid sinus. CONCLUSION: (1) An intimate knowledge of the constant anatomical symbols of the pterygopalatine fossa and the surrounding structure would maintain a sense of direction and improve surgery safety. (2) The pterygopalatine fossa could be exposed fully under endoscopy, and the vision was clear. Besides, the important nerves and vessels would be well protected, and operative approach was flexible according to the scope of pathological changes. (3) The near anatomic region could be accessed and the pathological changes could be treated through the endoscopic surgical approach.