[Approaches to the infra-spleno-temporal fossa and the lateral wall of the nasopharynx].

The authors suggest replacement of the term "infra-temporal fossa" (indicating in the international anatomical nomenclature the pterygo-maxillary fossa) by the term "infra-spheno-temporal fossa" which would seem anatomically more appropriat. In the context of an operation performed in this region for a recurrence of a nasopharyngeal angiofibroma, a review and anatomical study of the different approaches has been undertaken and a classification established. The antero-inferior approach via the cervico-trans-oral route would seem to be of particular interest, offering good exposure of the anatomical features of the region and avoiding the parotid bed ans dissection of the facial nerve.