Microsurgical Resection of Glomus Jugulare Tumors With Facial Nerve Reconstruction: 3-Dimensional Operative Video

2018 ◽  
Vol 16 (1) ◽  
pp. E1-E1 ◽  
Author(s):  
Duarte N C Cândido ◽  
Jean Gonçalves de Oliveira ◽  
Luis A B Borba

Abstract Paragangliomas are tumors originating from the paraganglionic system (autonomic nervous system), mostly found at the region around the jugular bulb, for which reason they are also termed glomus jugulare tumors (GJT). Although these lesions appear to be histologically benign, clinically they present with great morbidity, especially due to invasion of nearby structures such as the lower cranial nerves. These are challenging tumors, as they need complex approaches and great knowledge of the skull base. We present the case of a 31-year-old woman, operated by the senior author, with a 1-year history of tinnitus, vertigo, and progressive hearing loss, that evolved with facial nerve palsy (House-Brackmann IV) 2 months before surgery. Magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography scans demonstrated a typical lesion with intense flow voids at the jugular foramen region with invasion of the petrous and tympanic bone, carotid canal, and middle ear, and extending to the infratemporal fossa (type C2 of Fisch's classification for GJT). During the procedure the mastoid part of the facial nerve was identified involved by tumor and needed to be resected. We also describe the technique for nerve reconstruction, using an interposition graft from the great auricular nerve, harvested at the beginning of the surgery. We achieved total tumor resection with a remarkable postoperative course. The patient also presented with facial function after 6 months. The patient consented with publication of her images.

2011 ◽  
Vol 4 ◽  
pp. CMENT.S6570 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mohamed A. El Shazly ◽  
Mahmoud A.M. Mokbel ◽  
Amr A. Elbadry ◽  
Hatem S. Badran

Background Surgical approaches to the jugular foramen are often complex and lengthy procedures associated with significant morbidity based on the anatomic and tumor characteristics. In addition to the risk of intra-operative hemorrhage from vascular tumors, lower cranial nerves deficits are frequently increased after intra-operative manipulation. Accordingly, modifications in the surgical techniques have been developed to minimize these risks. Preoperative embolization and intra-operative ligation of the external carotid artery have decreased the intraoperative blood loss. Accurate identification and exposure of the cranial nerves extracranially allows for their preservation during tumor resection. The modification of facial nerve mobilization provides widened infratemporal exposure with less postoperative facial weakness. The ideal approach should enable complete, one stage tumor resection with excellent infratemporal and posterior fossa exposure and would not aggravate or cause neurologic deficit. The aim of this study is to present our experience in handling jugular foramen lesions (mainly glomus jugulare) without the need for anterior facial nerve transposition. Methods In this series we present our experience in Kasr ElEini University hospital (Cairo–-Egypt) in handling 36 patients with jugular foramen lesions over a period of 20 years where the previously mentioned preoperative and operative rules were followed. The clinical status, operative technique and postoperative care and outcome are detailed and analyzed in relation to the outcome. Results Complete cure without complications was achieved in four cases of congenital cholesteatoma and four cases with class B glomus. In advanced cases of glomus jugulare (28 patients) (C and D stages) complete cure was achieved in 21 of them (75%). The operative complications were also related to this group of 28 patients, in the form of facial paralysis in 20 of them (55.6%) and symptomatic vagal paralysis in 18 of them (50%). Conclusions Total anterior rerouting of the facial nerve carries a high risk of facial paralysis. So it should be reserved for cases where the lesion extends beyond the vertical ICA. Otherwise, for less extensive lesions and less aggressive pathologies, less aggressive approaches could be adopted with less hazards.


2020 ◽  
Vol 20 (1) ◽  
pp. E57-E57 ◽  
Author(s):  
Daniel M Heiferman ◽  
Esther A Cheng ◽  
Michael E Harkins ◽  
Matthew R Reynolds ◽  
Richard W Borrowdale ◽  
...  

Abstract A 37-yr-old female with prior transient left facial paralysis presented with hearing loss, headaches, and resolved transient right facial paralysis. The neurological examination demonstrated normal facial movement, left hearing loss, and left vocal cord weakness. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a >3 cm left paraganglioma traversing the jugular foramen. After obtaining informed consent from the patient, the tumor was embolized and then resected via a combined left postauricular infratemporal fossa and transcervical approach with cranial nerve monitoring. The ossicles were removed and the vertical segment of the facial nerve was skeletonized. The jugular bulb was identified in the hypotympanum and the petrous carotid artery was exposed. The digastric muscle was reflected inferiorly and the extratemporal facial nerve was identified. The stylomandibular ligament was transected to unlock the exposure to the infratemporal fossa. The external carotid branches were ligated. The vagus nerve and cervical sympathetic chain were infiltrated with tumor, requiring resection. The presigmoid dura and occluded jugular bulb were opened to complete the tumor resection, while preserving the medial wall. Despite anatomic preservation, the glossopharyngeal, accessory, and hypoglossal nerves were postoperatively weak and a facial paralysis recovered after 1 wk. Magnetic resonance imaging at 1 yr demonstrated a clean jugular foramen, although a thin rim of tumor remained around the petrous carotid.


1996 ◽  
Vol 115 (1) ◽  
pp. 82-88 ◽  
Author(s):  
Peter G. Von Doersten ◽  
Robert K. Jackler

Anterior rerouting of the facial nerve is a maneuver designed to enhance exposure of the jugular foramen and carotid canal during resection of cranial base tumors. Our clinical impression is that the degree of additional exposure afforded by moving the facial nerve varies considerably according to both anatomic variations and the technique used. Three possible techniques exist based on the extent of facial nerve mobilization and point of rotation: canal wall up-second genu pivot point (CWU-2G); canal wall down-second genu pivot point (CWD-2G); and canal wall down-first genu pivot point (CWD-1G). We anatomically studied 20 human cadaver heads to establish clinically relevant guidelines for the selective use of these techniques. At the level of the dome of the jugular bulb, the facial nerve mobilized anteriorly a mean of 4.2 mm for CWU-2G, 10 mm for CWD-2G, and 14 mm for CWD-1G. Detailed analysis of numerous measurements and rotation angles suggests that the typical exposure afforded by the various rerouting techniques is as follows: CWU-2G, complete exposure of the jugular bulb; CWD-2G, exposure of the jugular bulb and a mean of 6 mm of the posterior aspect of the carotid artery; and CWD-1G, exposure of the jugular bulb and entire carotid genu. Minimizing the amount of facial nerve manipulation needed to achieve sufficient surgical exposure helps optimize postoperative functional status.


1995 ◽  
Vol 83 (5) ◽  
pp. 903-909 ◽  
Author(s):  
S. Adetokunboh Ayeni ◽  
Kenji Ohata ◽  
Kiyoaki Tanaka ◽  
Akira Hakuba

✓ The microsurgical anatomy of the jugular foramen was studied in 10 fixed cadavers, each cadaver consisting of the whole head and neck. Five of the cadavers were injected with latex. The jugular foraminal region was exposed using the infratemporal fossa type A approach of Fisch and Pillsbury in five cadavers (10 sides) and the combined cervical dissection—mastoidectomy—suboccipital craniectomy approach in five cadavers (10 sides). The right foramen was larger than the left in seven cases (70%), equal in two cases (20%), and smaller in one case (10%). The dura covering the intracranial portal of the foramen had two perforations, a smaller anteromedial perforation through which passed the ninth cranial nerve (CN IX), and a larger posterolateral perforation, through which passed the 10th and 11th cranial nerves (CNs X and XI) and the distal sigmoid sinus. The perforations were separated by a fibrous septum in 16 specimens (80%). After exiting the posterior fossa, CNs IX, X, and XI all lay anteromedial to the superior jugular bulb (SJB) within the jugular foramen. The inferior petrosal sinus (IPS) entered the foramen between CNs IX and X in most cases; however, in 10% of our cases it entered the foramen between CNs X and XI, and in 10% it entered the foramen caudal to CN XI. The IPS terminated in the SJB in 90% of our cases; in 40%, the IPS termination consisted of multiple channels draining into both the SJB and internal jugular vein. This study shows that the arrangement of the neurovascular structures within the jugular foramen does not conform to the hitherto widely accepted notion of discrete compartmentalization into an anteromedial pars nervosa containing CN IX and the IPS and a posterolateral pars venosa containing the SJB, CNs X and XI, and the posterior meningeal artery.


2004 ◽  
Vol 17 (2) ◽  
pp. 56-62 ◽  
Author(s):  
Paulo A. S. Kadri ◽  
Ossama Al-Mefty

Object Schwannomas of the jugular foramen are rare, comprising between 2 and 4% of intracranial schwannomas. The authors retrospectively analyzed their surgical experience with schwannomas of the lower cranial nerves that presented with intra- and extracranial extensions through an enlarged jugular foramen. The transcondylar suprajugular approach was used without sacrificing the labyrinth or the integrity of the jugular bulb. In this report the clinical and radiological features are discussed and complications are analyzed. Methods This retrospective study includes six patients (three women and three men, mean age 31.6 years) with dumbbell-shaped jugular foramen schwannomas that were surgically treated by the senior author during a 5.5-year period. One patient had undergone previous surgery elsewhere. Glossopharyngeal and vagal nerve deficits were the most common signs (appearing in all patients), followed by hypoglossal and accessory nerve deficits (66.6%). Two or more signs or symptoms were present in every patient. Three tumors presented with cystic degeneration. In four patients the jugular bulb was not patent on neuroimaging studies. The suprajugular approach was used in five patients; the origin of the tumor from the 10th cranial nerve could be defined in three of them. All lesions were completely resected. No death or additional postoperative cranial nerve deficits occurred in this series. Aspiration pneumonia developed in one patient. Preoperative deficits of the ninth and 10th cranial nerves improved in one third of the patients and half recovered mobility of the tongue. No recurrence was discovered during the mean follow-up period of 32.8 months. Conclusions With careful, extensive preoperative evaluation and appropriate planning of the surgical approach, dumbbell-shaped jugular foramen schwannomas can be radically and safely resected without creating additional neurological deficits. Furthermore, recovery of function in the affected cranial nerves can be expected.


2021 ◽  
pp. 014556132110002
Author(s):  
Jiangyu Yan ◽  
Fangfang Pan ◽  
Mengmeng Zhen ◽  
Yuan Ren ◽  
Wenjuan Hao ◽  
...  

Facial nerve schwannoma (FNS) is a benign, slow-growing schwannoma that originates from Schwann cells. Facial nerve schwannoma is the most common tumor of the facial nerve but rare and only accounts for 0.15% to 0.8% of intracranial neurinomas. It may be manifested as asymmetric hearing loss, facial palsy, and hemifacial spasm. A 56-year-old woman was transferred to our department, because of pain behind the right ear and spasm of the right lateral muscle for more than 2 years and pulsatile tinnitus for half a year. Based on the preoperative medical history, physical signs, and auxiliary examination, it was diagnosed with jugular foramen (JF) space-occupying lesion. We removed the tumor through the infratemporal fossa type A approach and found that the tumor originated from the facial nerve. After the tumor resection, sural nerve transplantation was performed. The patient demonstrated postoperative facial palsy (House-Brackman grade VI) and was smoothly discharged after good recovery. Facial nerve schwannoma rarely invades the JF, and the most common tumor in the JF is the glomus jugular tumor, followed by the posterior cranial schwannoma. They have common symptoms, making it difficult to obtain a correct diagnosis. Clinical data, medical history, and auxiliary examinations should be carefully analyzed to avoid misdiagnosis or mistreatment. Infratemporal fossa type A approach is an effective method for treating FNS of JF.


Author(s):  
Jianfeng Liu ◽  
Carlos D. Pinheiro-Neto ◽  
Dazhang Yang ◽  
Eric Wang ◽  
Paul A. Gardner ◽  
...  

Abstract Objective The jugular foramen is one of the most challenging surgical regions in skull base surgery. With the development of endoscopic techniques, the endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA) has been undertaken to treat some lesions in this area independently or combined with open approaches. The purpose of the current study is to describe the anatomical steps and landmarks for the EEA to the jugular foramen and to compare it with the degree of exposure obtained with the lateral infratemporal fossa approach. Materials and Methods A total of 15 osseous structures related to the jugular foramen were measured in 33 adult dry skulls. Three silicone-injected adult cadaveric heads (six sides) were dissected for EEA and three heads (six sides) were used for a lateral infratemporal fossa approach (Fisch type A). The jugular foramen was exposed, relevant landmarks were demonstrated, and the distances between relevant landmarks and the jugular foramen were obtained. High-quality pictures were obtained. Results The jugular foramen was accessed in all dissections by using either approach. Important anatomical landmarks for EEA include internal carotid artery (ICA), petroclival fissure, inferior petrosal sinus, jugular tubercle, and hypoglossal canal. The EEA exposed the anterior and medial parts of the jugular foramen, while the lateral infratemporal fossa approach (Fisch type A) exposed the lateral and posterior parts of the jugular foramen. With EEA, dissection and transposition of the facial nerve was avoided, but the upper parapharyngeal and paraclival ICA may need to be mobilized to adequately expose the jugular foramen. Conclusion The EEA to the jugular foramen is anatomically feasible but requires mobilization of the ICA to provide access to the anterior and medial aspects of the jugular foramen. The lateral infratemporal approach requires facial nerve transposition to provide access to the lateral and posterior parts of the jugular foramen. A deep understanding of the complex anatomy of this region is paramount for safe and effective surgery of the jugular foramen. Both techniques may be complementary considering the different regions of the jugular foramen accessed with each approach.


Neurosurgery ◽  
2003 ◽  
Vol 52 (6) ◽  
pp. 1400-1410 ◽  
Author(s):  
M. Faik Özveren ◽  
Uğur Türe ◽  
M. Memet Özek ◽  
M. Necmettin Pamir

Abstract OBJECTIVE Compared with other lower cranial nerves, the glossopharyngeal nerve (GPhN) is well hidden within the jugular foramen, at the infratemporal fossa, and in the deep layers of the neck. This study aims to disclose the course of the GPhN and point out landmarks to aid in its exposure. METHODS The GPhN was studied in 10 cadaveric heads (20 sides) injected with colored latex for microsurgical dissection. The specimens were dissected under the surgical microscope. RESULTS The GPhN can be divided into three portions: cisternal, jugular foramen, and extracranial. The rootlets of the GPhN emerge from the postolivary sulcus and course ventral to the flocculus and choroid plexus of the lateral recess of the fourth ventricle. The nerve then enters the jugular foramen through the uppermost porus (pars nervosa) and is separated from the vagus and accessory nerves by a fibrous crest. The cochlear aqueduct opens to the roof of this porus. On four sides in the cadaver specimens (20%), the GPhN traversed a separate bony canal within the jugular foramen; no separate canal was found in the other cadavers. In all specimens, the Jacobson's (tympanic) nerve emerged from the inferior ganglion of the GPhN, and the Arnold's (auricular branch of the vagus) nerve also consisted of branches from the GPhN. The GPhN exits from the jugular foramen posteromedial to the styloid process and the styloid muscles. The last four cranial nerves and the internal jugular vein pass through a narrow space between the transverse process of the atlas (C1) and the styloid process. The styloid muscles are a pyramid shape, the tip of which is formed by the attachment of the styloid muscles to the styloid process. The GPhN crosses to the anterior side of the stylopharyngeus muscle at the junction of the stylopharyngeus, middle constrictor, and hyoglossal muscles, which are at the base of the pyramid. The middle constrictor muscle forms a wall between the GPhN and the hypoglossal nerve in this region. Then, the GPhN gives off a lingual branch and deepens to innervate the pharyngeal mucosa. CONCLUSION Two landmarks help to identify the GPhN in the subarachnoid space: the choroid plexus of the lateral recess of the fourth ventricle and the dural entrance porus of the jugular foramen. The opening of the cochlear aqueduct, the mastoid canaliculus, and the inferior tympanic canaliculus are three landmarks of the GPhN within the jugular foramen. Finally, the base of the styloid process, the base of the styloid pyramid, and the transverse process of the atlas serve as three landmarks of the GPhN at the extracranial region in the infratemporal fossa.


2018 ◽  
Vol 07 (01) ◽  
pp. 023-028
Author(s):  
Saurin Shah ◽  
Amit Keshri ◽  
Simple Patadia ◽  
Rabi Sahu ◽  
Raj Kumar

Abstract Objectives To evaluate the facial nerve in inferior and lateral (transmastoid) approaches to the jugular foramen and/or petrous apex. Design Retrospective study of 11 consecutive patients operated for lesions in the jugular foramen/petrous apex via an inferior or lateral transpetrosal approach. Setting Tertiary care superspecialty referral center. Participants Eleven consecutive patients of jugular foramen/petrous apex lesions operated over a period of 18 months. Main Outcomes Measures Extent of tumor resection, surgical technique used, and recovery of facial nerve function postoperatively. Conclusion Approach to these lesions needs to be tailored to the extent of disease, possible histology and relation to the facial nerve. Meticulous surgery and adequate postoperative care permit a satisfactory recovery of facial nerve function following rerouting procedures.


Neurosurgery ◽  
2002 ◽  
Vol 50 (3) ◽  
pp. 437-449 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sajjan Sarma ◽  
Laligam N. Sekhar ◽  
David A. Schessel

Abstract OBJECTIVE: Nonvestibular schwannomas are uncommon tumors of the brain. Trigeminal nerve schwannomas are the most common of this group, followed by glossopharyngeal, vagal, facial, accessory, hypoglossal, oculomotor, trochlear, and abducens nerve schwannomas, in descending order of frequency. We present a series of nonvestibular schwannomas that were surgically treated during a 7-year period. METHODS: Forty-six patients with schwannomas of Cranial Nerves V (26 cases), VII (7 cases), IX, X, and XI (9 cases), XII (3 cases), and III (1 case) were microsurgically treated by the senior author (LNS) during a 7-year period, from 1993 to 2000. The clinical presentations, operative approaches, complications, and results were studied. RESULTS: Forty-five patients underwent gross total tumor resection in the first operation. One patient who had undergone subtotal tumor resection in the initial operation experienced a large recurrence after 4 years, and gross total tumor resection was achieved in the second operation. There were no postoperative deaths. Postoperative morbidity consisted of cerebrospinal fluid leaks for 5 patients (3 patients required a second operation to repair the leak, and 2 patients responded to lumbar drain placement), meningitis for 3 patients (2 cases were aseptic and 1 involved bacterial meningitis, which resolved with antibiotic therapy), vasospasm requiring angioplasty for 1 patient, temporary hemiparesis for 2 patients (who experienced good recoveries), and permanent hemiparesis for 1 patient. New cranial nerve deficits were observed for 24% of patients but were usually partial. The mean follow-up period was 33.3 months (range, 0.2–93 mo). No patient experienced tumor recurrence after complete tumor removal. The patient who experienced regrowth of the tumor did not exhibit recurrence after the second operation. The Karnofsky Performance Scale scores at the latest follow-up examination were 80 or more for 45 patients (98%) and 70 for 1 patient. CONCLUSION: Nonvestibular schwannomas can be treated via microsurgical excision, with excellent functional results. Recurrence is rare after total tumor excision, although much longer follow-up monitoring is required.


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