Endoscopic Ligation of Sphenopalatine Artery — Anatomy

Indications:

• Control of epistaxis
• Vascular control prior to tumor removal

Highlights:

• Incision made over palatine bone just posterior to maxillary fontanelle
• Crista ethmoidalis serves as landmark just anterior to sphenopalatine foramen
• Endoscopic clip appliers facilitate clip application

Keep in Mind/Things to Remember:

• SPA may branch prior to exiting foramen, often with larger SPA branch and smaller posterior nasal branch
• An isolation of artery from surrounding fascia facilitates clip application and/or cauterization