Anterior Transoral Resection

Anterior transoral odontoid resection is a useful surgical treatment for ventral, midline irreducible pathology at the craniocervical junction. With modern imaging and surgical advances, transoral odontoid resection can be safely performed. Evaluation and care of the patient undergoing transoral surgery are reviewed, as are relevant anterior craniocervical anatomy, surgical indications, operative technique and complication avoidance.