Abordaje del Espacio Paramandibular
Abordaje del Espacio Paramandibular
The choice between endobuccal and extrabucal approaches significantly impacts recovery. While a cutaneous approach is more invasive, its effective drainage may lead to quicker resolution of infection-related symptoms, potentially reducing recovery time. Conversely, an endobuccal approach, despite being less visually invasive, could prolong recovery due to challenges in drainage and potential complications like vessel injury .
A dual approach involving both endobuccal and extrabucal methods is necessary when there is involvement of both the superficial and deep temporal spaces. The temporal muscle obstructs access to the deeper temporal space, requiring complementary endobuccal access for effective treatment of the abscess, ensuring comprehensive debridement and drainage .
When performing debridement of the paramandibular space via a cutaneous approach, it is crucial to avoid the inferior branches of the facial nerve by making the incision as low and parallel as possible to the mandibular base. This careful placement minimizes the risk of nerve damage, a critical consideration in maintaining facial function after the procedure .
Injuring facial vessels during a debridement through an endobuccal approach can create a significant emergency situation, as these vessels can bleed profusely. Managing such bleeding internally is more complex due to restricted access and visibility, potentially compromising the success and safety of the procedure .
The gravitational flow of purulent collections requires strategic consideration in selecting surgical approaches. An approach that aligns with gravity, such as the cutaneous route, facilitates better drainage and is more effective compared to methods that work against gravity, like endobuccal approaches, which can retain fluids .
Making the cutaneous incision parallel to anatomical features such as the mandibular base is important to avoid damage to critical structures like the branches of the facial nerve. Proper incision placement ensures surgical access while minimizing risks of complications and preserving the function of facial anatomy .
The incision for accessing the temporal space externally is made in the temporal fossa, above the zygomatic arch, parallel and posterior to the temporofacial nerve. This contrasts with the endobuccal necessity to open a secondary channel when the temporal muscle obstructs deeper access to the temporal space, highlighting the external approach's direct access advantage .
The endobuccal approach for debridement of a paramandibular space abscess offers the advantage of being more aesthetic due to its access through the lower vestibule. However, it poses significant risks, such as potential injury to facial vessels and creating an emergency situation that is difficult to manage within this field. Additionally, the purulent collection is aligned against gravity, making its drainage less effective .
The cutaneous route is advised over the endobuccal approach for easier access to the paramandibular space because it avoids the complications associated with traversing the buccinator muscle and potential emergencies due to vessel injury. It also allows for drainage that is not countered by gravity, making the procedure more straightforward and accessible .
To minimize aesthetic impact during extrabucal surgery on the temporal space, surgeons can utilize the scalp as a cover by performing incisions there, ensuring hair conceals any surgical marks. Pre-surgical shaving helps in making such incisions discreet and minimizes visible scars, maintaining better post-operative aesthetics .


