LATERAL RHINOTOMY APPROACH FOR MOHS MICROGRAPHIC SURGERY OF THE ANTERIOR SEPTUM

BACKGROUND. Neoplasms of the nasal septum and internal alar surface ar e very difficult to treat. This is because of the complicated surface, proximity to important anatomic structures, and technical difficulty - both to resection and follow up. Mohs micrographic surgery might be the ideal mode of treatment for such tumors; however, it is very diffi cult to accomplish through the nostril. OBJECTIVE. To resect the tumor on the nasal septum and internal alar surface using Mohs micrographic surgery. METHODS. Lateral rhinotomy was performed as a preparatory st age to Mohs micrographic surgery of the anterior septum and intranasal alar surface. RESULTS. The ala nasi was detached from the cheek, thus exposing the interior nasal cavity - enabling direct access to the ne oplasms and allowing excellent visualization. CONCLUSION. Lateral rhin otomy, as described in this article, is a simple office procedure and in most cases heals with no visible scar.