A contribution to the anatomic basis of the transoral approach to the atlas and axis.

The transoral approach (Fang and Ong 1962) allows direct free exposure of the atlas and axis. However, a morphologic description of certain structures at risk corresponding to the views at operation has so far been lacking. The present study is intended to fill this gap by giving the surgeon a transoral view of the peripharyngeal structures. This is a further instance of how classical gross anatomy needs to be continuously rediscovered in the light of clinical activities.