Transoral approach to extradural lesions of the lower clivus and upper cervical spine: an experience of 19 cases.

An experience with 19 cases of transoral exposure of the lower clivus and ventral aspect of the upper cervical spine is presented. The spectrum of pathological entities in this series includes malformative, neoplastic, and spondylotic conditions. The report is designed to focus upon some points of overall surgical management of patients treated by the transoral approach, with emphasis on management of postoperative instability, and to underline the discrepancy in the prognosis of congenital and acquired disorders, in terms of mortality, morbidity, and long-term results.