Anatomy of the lateral pharyngotomy approach.

The pace of progress in head and neck surgery is rapid and can be bewildering to practitioners and students alike. As education is one of the major missions of Head & Neck, this new series is devoted to a comprehensive discussion of basic anatomical concepts manifested in the diagnosis, treatment, and care of patients with diseases of the head and neck. Although the anatomy of the head and neck region as related to surgical procedures will certainly be discussed, this will by no means be the only subject addressed. Other topics include the anatomic basis for specific pain syndromes encountered in patients with cancer of the head and neck, structural and lymphatic anatomy demonstrating patterns of disease spread, and constraints to standard surgical procedures because of anatomic "barriers." As medical illustration is an extremely important aspect of anatomy education, a concerted effort will be made to present material with illustrations that are understandable, clear, and concise. It is hoped that these subjects will not only educate but will also engender other topics of interest to readers. I welcome your suggestions for appropriate topics, as well as original contributions in keeping with the series guidelines.