scholarly journals Transnasal odontoid resection: is there an anatomic explanation for differing swallowing outcomes?

2014 ◽  
Vol 37 (4) ◽  
pp. E16 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kathryn M. Van Abel ◽  
Grant W. Mallory ◽  
Jan L. Kasperbauer ◽  
Eric J. Moore ◽  
Daniel L. Price ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Clinical Investigation ◽  
Cranial Nerves ◽  
Sympathetic Chain ◽  
Surgical Approaches ◽  
Upper Cervical Spine ◽  
Layer By Layer ◽  
Fiber Density ◽  
Pharyngeal Plexus ◽  
Swallowing Dysfunction ◽  
Swallowing Outcomes

Object Swallowing dysfunction is common following transoral (TO) odontoidectomy. Preliminary experience with newer endoscopic transnasal (TN) approaches suggests that dysphagia may be reduced with this alternative. However, the reasons for this are unclear. The authors hypothesized that the TN approach results in less disruption of the pharyngeal plexus and anatomical structures associated with swallowing. The authors investigate the histological and gross surgical anatomical relationship between pharyngeal plexus innervation of the upper aerodigestive tract and the surgical approaches used (TN and TO). They also review the TN literature to evaluate swallowing outcomes following this approach. Methods Seven cadaveric specimens were used for histological (n = 3) and gross anatomical (n = 4) examination of the pharyngeal plexus with the TO and TN surgical approaches. Particular attention was given to identifying the location of cranial nerves (CNs) IX and X and the sympathetic chain and their contributions to the pharyngeal plexus. S100 staining was performed to assess for the presence of neural tissue in proximity to the midline, and fiber density counts were performed within 1 cm of midline. The relationship between the pharyngeal plexus, clivus, and upper cervical spine (C1-3) was defined. Results Histological analysis revealed the presence of pharyngeal plexus fibers in the midline and a significant reduction in paramedian fiber density from C-2 to the lower clivus (p < 0.001). None of these paramedian fibers, however, could be visualized with gross inspection or layer-by-layer dissection. Laterally based primary pharyngeal plexus nerves were identified by tracing their origins from CNs IX and X and the sympathetic chain at the skull base and following them to the pharyngeal musculature. In addition, the authors found 15 studies presenting 52 patients undergoing TN odontoidectomy. Of these patients, only 48 had been swallowing preoperatively. When looking only at this population, 83% (40 of 48) were swallowing by Day 3 and 92% (44 of 48) were swallowing by Day 7. Conclusions Despite the midline approach, both TO and TN approaches may injure a portion of the pharyngeal plexus. By limiting the TN incision to above the palatal plane, the surgeon avoids the high-density neural plexus found in the oropharyngeal wall and limits injury to oropharyngeal musculature involved in swallowing. This may explain the decreased incidence of postoperative dysphagia seen in TN approaches. However, further clinical investigation is warranted.

scholarly journals Resection of a Lower Clival Meningioma via Posterolateral Approach: Two-Dimensional Operative Video

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Pinar E. Ocak ◽  
Selcuk Yilmazlar
Keyword(s):  
Cranial Nerve ◽  
Cranial Nerves ◽  
Posterolateral Approach ◽  
Left Vertebral Artery ◽  
Posterior Arch ◽  
Upper Cervical Spine ◽  
Two Dimensional ◽  
Lower Cranial Nerve ◽  
Complex Anatomy ◽  
Microsurgical Resection

Abstract Objectives This study aimed to demonstrate resection of a craniovertebral junction (CVJ) meningioma via the posterolateral approach. Design The study is designed with a two-dimensional operative video. Setting This study is conducted at department of neurosurgery in a university hospital. Participants A 50-year-old woman who presented with lower cranial nerve findings due to a left-sided lower clival meningioma (Fig. 1). Main Outcome Measures Microsurgical resection of the meningioma and preservation of the neurovascular structures. Results The patient was placed in park-bench position and a left-sided retrosigmoid suboccipital craniotomy, followed by C1 hemilaminectomy and unroofing the lip of the foramen magnum, was performed. The dural incision extended from the suboccipital region down to the posterior arch of C2 (Fig. 2). The arachnoid overlying the tumor was incised, revealing the course of the cranial nerve (CN) XI on the dorsolateral aspect of the tumor. The left vertebral artery (VA) was encased by the tumor which was originating from the dura below the jugular foramen. The mass was resected in a piecemeal fashion eventually. At the end of the procedure, all relevant cranial nerves and adjacent vascular structures were intact. Postoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) confirmed total resection and the patient was discharged home on postoperative day 3 safely. Conclusions Microsurgical resection of the lesions of the CVJ are challenging as this transition zone between the cranium and upper cervical spine has a complex anatomy. Since adequate exposure of the extradural and intradural segments of the VA can be obtained by the posterolateral approach, this approach can be preferred in cases with tumors anterior to the VA or when the artery is encased by the tumor.The link to the video can be found at: https://youtu.be/d3u5Qrc-zlM.

EFFECTS OF USING COMBINED TRANSPETROSAL SURGICAL APPROACHES TO TREAT PETROCLIVAL MENINGIOMAS

Neurosurgery ◽  
2007 ◽  
Vol 60 (6) ◽  
pp. 982-992 ◽  
Author(s):  
Tiit Mathiesen ◽  
Åsa Gerlich ◽  
Lars Kihlström ◽  
Mikael Svensson ◽  
Dan Bagger-Sjöbäck
Keyword(s):  
Facial Nerve ◽  
Psychosocial Support ◽  
Cranial Nerves ◽  
Negative Influence ◽  
Surgical Approaches ◽  
Tumor Control ◽  
Recurrence Rates ◽  
Trigeminal Neuropathy ◽  
Mean Values ◽  
Petroclival Meningiomas

Abstract OBJECTIVE Surgical treatment may be required for large petroclival meningiomas; however, surgery for these lesions is a major undertaking, and modern surgical approaches are still associated with considerable morbidity and recurrence rates. We analyzed our series of transpetrosally operated petroclival meningiomas to obtain detailed information regarding the surgery outcomes with respect to facial nerve effects, hearing changes, general neurological and psychosocial differences, and recurrence rates to identify opportunities for improvement. METHODS Between 1994 and 2004, we used transpetrosal approaches to operate on 29 patients for petroclival meningiomas larger than 30 mm. All patients were analyzed in detail regarding neurological outcomes and hearing abilities after surgery. Swedish-speaking patients were contacted for a psychosocial follow-up evaluation using the short-item 36 (SF-36) form. Results After surgery, the Glasgow Outcome Score improved in 14 patients, was unchanged in 11 patients, and worsened in four patients. Facial nerve function was found to be of House-Brackmann Grade 3 or worse in six patients (including three individuals with transcochlear surgery and facial nerve rerouting). Of the 23 patients who underwent hearing-preservation surgery, serviceable hearing was preserved in 17 individuals. Nineteen Swedish patients were contacted for psychosocial evaluation. Three patients could not participate for health reasons; of the remaining 16 patients, 12 reported physical health scores that were below mean values for the general population. For patients who did not experience very serious neurological compromise, we found that unexpected painful trigeminal neuropathy and unilateral swallowing difficulties conveyed a negative influence on health. Three years after surgery, the patients reported more normalized health scores. CONCLUSION Generally, outcomes compared well with current reports. Outcomes can be improved, however by improving patients' psychosocial support; striving to decompress, preserve, and minimize dissection of ill-defined planes of cranial nerves; and using Simpson Grade 4 gamma knife approaches when radicality is precluded. Currently, the performance of transpetrosal surgery for petroclival meningiomas is a major undertaking that significantly affects a patient's health for several years; however, the approaches that we used allowed a high degree of tumor control with relatively little neurological morbidity.

Transorbital endoscopic amygdalohippocampectomy: a feasibility investigation

2014 ◽  
Vol 120 (6) ◽  
pp. 1428-1436 ◽  
Author(s):  
H. Isaac Chen ◽  
Leif-Erik Bohman ◽  
Laurie A. Loevner ◽  
Timothy H. Lucas
Keyword(s):  
White Matter ◽  
Temporal Lobe ◽  
Hippocampal Formation ◽  
Clinical Investigation ◽  
Temporal Cortex ◽  
Intractable Epilepsy ◽  
Direct Access ◽  
Surgical Approaches ◽  
Mesial Temporal Sclerosis ◽  
Orbital Wall

Object Resection of the hippocampus is the standard of care for medically intractable epilepsy in patients with mesial temporal sclerosis. Although temporal craniotomy in this setting is highly successful, the procedure carries certain immutable risks and may be associated with cognitive deficits related to cortical and white matter disruption. Alternative surgical approaches may reduce some of these risks by preserving the lateral temporal lobe. This study examined the feasibility of transorbital endoscopic amygdalohippocampectomy (TEA) as an alternative to open craniotomy in cadaveric specimens. Methods TEA dissections were performed in 4 hemispheres from 2 injected cadaveric specimens fixed in alcohol. Quantitative predictions of the limits of exposure based on predissection imaging were compared with intradissection measurements. The extent of resection and angles of exposure during the dissection and on postdissection imaging were recorded. These measurements were validated with MRI studies from 10 epilepsy patients undergoing standard surgical evaluations. Results The transorbital approach permitted direct access to the mesial temporal structures through the lateral orbital wall. Up to 97% of the hippocampal formation was resected with no brain retraction and minimal (mean 6.0 ± 1.4 mm) globe displacement. Lateral temporal lobe white matter tracts were preserved. Conclusions TEA permits hippocampectomy comparable to standard surgical approaches without disrupting the lateral temporal cortex or white matter. This novel approach is feasible in cadaveric specimens and warrants clinical investigation in carefully selected cases.

scholarly journals Surgery of petroclival meningiomas. Recent surgical results and outcomes

2015 ◽  
Vol 22 (1) ◽  
pp. 27-37
Author(s):  
Mugurel Radoi ◽  
Florin Stefanescu ◽  
Ram Vakilnejad ◽  
Lidia Gheorghitescu ◽  
Daniela Rosu
Keyword(s):  
Tumor Resection ◽  
Cranial Nerves ◽  
Surgical Approaches ◽  
Subtotal Resection ◽  
Recent Experience ◽  
Surgical Results ◽  
Petroclival Meningiomas ◽  
Microsurgical Techniques ◽  
Postoperative Hydrocephalus ◽  
Loss Of Hearing

Abstract Petroclival meningiomas represent only 10% of all meningiomas located in the posterior fossa, but are some of the most formidable challenges in skull base surgery. We described our recent experience (2005-September2014) regarding the surgery of these tumors. We retrospectively analyzed surgical results and outcome in 11 cases of petroclival meningiomas. Most common symptoms in our series were headache and gait disturbance, while cranial nerves palsies represented the most common presenting signs. There were 8 females and 3 males, and the mean age was 52 years. Surgical approaches chosen for petroclival meningiomas in our series were retrosigmoid (9 patients) and subtemporal transtentorial (2 patients). We achieved total tumor resection in 5 cases (45%) and subtotal resection in 6 cases (55%). Overall outcome (total/subtotal resection) was good in 6 cases, fair in 3 cases and poor in one case. One postoperative death occurred due to hemorrhagic midbrain infarction (9%). Complications were usually related to cranial nerve deficits: loss of hearing (2 patients), paresis of trochlear nerve (1 patient), trigeminal nerve (3 patients) and facial nerve (1 patient). In 4 patients these cranial nerves deficits were transient. In one case, a patient developed postoperative hydrocephalus and needed shunt placement. Despite the fact that complications can be disastrous, we considered that an appropriate approach, combined with microsurgical techniques and a better understanding of the anatomy, greatly decrease the incidence and severity of complications and make feasible a total tumor resection.

scholarly journals Intra orbital Schwanoma of the supraorbital nerve

2018 ◽  
Vol 22 (4) ◽  
pp. 179-182
Author(s):  
Apio Antunes ◽  
Mateus F. L. Beck ◽  
Andre C. Franciscatto ◽  
Mateus Franzoi ◽  
Atahualpa C. P. Strapassom
Keyword(s):  
Case Report ◽  
Cranial Nerves ◽  
Signs And Symptoms ◽  
Surgical Approaches ◽  
Total Removal ◽  
Combined Surgery ◽  
Supraorbital Nerve ◽  
History Of ◽  
One Year ◽  
Orbital Region

Background: The orbital region can be occupied by various lesions including both neoplastic or non-neoplastic. Schwannomas of the supraorbital nerve are very rare tumors. Case Report: A case of a 15 years-old female patient with a one year history of progressive proptosis and no visual symptoms is presented with. This patient underwent a combined surgery with total removal of the tumor. Discussion: Intraorbital schwannomas are usually associated with neurofibromatosis and different structures can originate these tumours, including peripheral and cranial nerves. The signs and symptoms usually follow a chronic process. Surgical treatment is necessary, with various reported surgical approaches. Conclusion: We report, to the best of our knowledge, the eleventh case of schwannoma of the supraorbital nerve, describing the main features of this pathology. 

The Asterion-to-Transverse Process of the Atlas Line as a Surgical Landmark

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jaafar Basma ◽  
Dom E. Mahoney ◽  
Christos Anagnostopoulos ◽  
L. Madison Michael ◽  
Jeffrey M. Sorenson ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Skull Base ◽  
Cranial Nerves ◽  
Three Dimensional ◽  
Transverse Process ◽  
Jugular Foramen ◽  
Foramen Magnum ◽  
Sigmoid Sinus ◽  
Cervical Region ◽  
Surgical Approaches ◽  
Anatomical Location

Abstract Introduction Proposed landmarks to predict the anatomical location and trajectory of the sigmoid sinus have varying degrees of reliability. Even with neuronavigation technology, landmarks are crucial in planning and performing complex approaches to the posterolateral skull base. By combining two major dependable structures—the asterion (A) and transverse process of the atlas (TPC1)—we investigate the A-TPC1 line in relation to the sigmoid sinus and in partitioning surgical approaches to the region. Methods We dissected six cadaveric heads (12 sides) to expose the posterolateral skull base, including the mastoid and suboccipital bone, TPC1 and suboccipital triangle, distal jugular vein and internal carotid artery, and lower cranial nerves in the distal cervical region. We inspected the A-TPC1 line before and after drilling the mastoid and occipital bones and studied the relationship of the sigmoid sinus trajectory and major muscular elements related to the line. We retrospectively reviewed 31 head and neck computed tomography (CT) angiograms (62 total sides), excluding posterior fossa or cervical pathologies. Bone and vessels were reconstructed using three-dimensional segmentation software. We measured the distance between the A-TPC1 line and sigmoid sinus at different levels: posterior digastric point (DP), and maximal distances above and below the digastric notch. Results A-TPC1 length averaged 65 mm and was posterior to the sigmoid sinus in all cadaver specimens, coming closest at the level of the DP. Using the transverse-asterion line as a rostrocaudal division and skull base as a horizontal plane, we divided the major surgical approaches into four quadrants: distal cervical/extreme lateral and jugular foramen (anteroinferior), presigmoid/petrosal (anterosuperior), retrosigmoid/suboccipital (posterosuperior), and far lateral/foramen magnum regions (posteroinferior). Radiographically, the A-TPC1 line was also posterior to the sigmoid sinus in all sides and came closest to the sinus at the level of DP (mean, 7 mm posterior; range, 0–18.7 mm). The maximal distance above the DP had a mean of 10.1 mm (range, 3.6–19.5 mm) and below the DP 5.2 mm (range, 0–20.7 mm). Conclusion The A-TPC1 line is a helpful landmark reliably found posterior to the sigmoid sinus in cadaveric specimens and radiographic CT scans. It can corroborate the accuracy of neuronavigation, assist in minimizing the risk of sigmoid sinus injury, and is a useful tool in planning surgical approaches to the posterolateral skull base, both preoperatively and intraoperatively.

scholarly journals Surgical Treatment of Posterior Circulation Aneurysms – Anatomical Study and Surgical Technique

2018 ◽  
Vol 37 (01) ◽  
pp. 27-37
Author(s):  
Vitor Yamaki ◽  
Eric Paschoal ◽  
Manoel Teixeira ◽  
Eberval Figueiredo
Keyword(s):  
Surgical Treatment ◽  
Posterior Inferior Cerebellar Artery ◽  
Cranial Nerves ◽  
Posterior Circulation ◽  
Surgical Approaches ◽  
Superior Cerebellar Artery ◽  
Anterior Circulation ◽  
Cerebellar Artery ◽  
Risk Of Rupture ◽  
Posterior Circulation Aneurysms

AbstractPosterior circulation aneurysms represent 10–15% of intracranial aneurysms. The diagnosis is usually secondary to subarachnoid hemorrhage due to its initial asymptomatic presentation and higher risk of rupture compared with aneurysms in the anterior circulation. The surgical treatment of posterior circulation aneurysms is complex and challenging for neurosurgeons because of the particular anatomy of the posterior circulation with its close relation to the brainstem and cranial nerves and also because of the depth and narrowness of the surgical approach. Aneurysms from different locations have specific anatomical relationships and surgical approaches for better visualization and dissection. Therefore, a detailed anatomy knowledge of the posterior circulation is mandatory for an individualized preoperative planning and good neurological and angiographic outcomes. We selected the main aneurysm sites on the posterior circulation, such as: posterior inferior cerebellar artery, basilar trunk, basilar bifurcation, posterior cerebral artery (PCA) and superior cerebellar artery for a detailed description of the relevant anatomy related to aneurysm, and the main surgical approaches for its surgical treatment. Furthermore, we performed a literature review with the most recent outcomes regarding to the surgical treatment of posterior circulation aneurysms.

Surgical approaches to posterior fossa tumours

2019 ◽  
pp. 375-382
Author(s):  
Jacques J. Morcos ◽  
Osaama Khan ◽  
Ashish H. Shah
Keyword(s):  
Posterior Fossa ◽  
Fourth Ventricle ◽  
Cranial Nerves ◽  
Surgical Techniques ◽  
Foramen Magnum ◽  
Surgical Approaches ◽  
Tumour Resection ◽  
Surgical Morbidity ◽  
Preoperative Workup ◽  
Lower Cranial Nerves

Lesions of the fourth ventricle and foramen magnum can be difficult to manage surgically due to their proximity to critical brainstem structures. Understanding the anatomy of the fourth ventricle, lower cranial nerves, and basilar cisterns remains paramount for deciding surgical approaches to this location. Detailed preoperative workup and planning are necessary to minimize surgical morbidity and maximize tumour resection. This chapter provides an overview of the relevant anatomy and surgical techniques for lesions in the posterior fossa, specifically the fourth ventricle the foramen magnum. We will split this chapter into two main sections: microsurgical approaches to the fourth ventricle and skull base approaches to the foramen magnum.

scholarly journals Cranial Nerve Injuries and the Retrojugular Approach in Carotid Endarterectomy

2008 ◽  
Vol 90 (8) ◽  
pp. 685-688 ◽  
Author(s):  
William D Beasley ◽  
Christopher P Gibbons
Keyword(s):  
Carotid Endarterectomy ◽  
Cranial Nerve ◽  
Statistical Significance ◽  
Cranial Nerves ◽  
Case Series ◽  
Surgical Approaches ◽  
Nerve Injuries ◽  
Retrospective Case ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Cranial Nerve Injuries

INTRODUCTION This is a retrospective case series analysis to compare the incidence of cranial nerve injuries in carotid endarterectomy by the retrojugular and anteromedial approaches. PATIENTS AND METHODS Data were extracted from a prospectively collected database. Ninety-one retrojugular carotid endarterectomies were compared with 145 anteromedial carotid endarterectomies. All were performed under local anaesthesia and used the eversion technique. Data were analysed using the chi-squared test. RESULTS Nine (3.8%) cases were complicated by cranial nerve injuries. In four cases, multiple nerves were involved. In total, 13 (5.5%) cranial nerves were injured. The affected nerves were: two (0.8%) marginal mandibular, two (0.8%) laryngeal, three (1.2%) accessory and six (2.5%) hypoglossal. There was no statistically significant difference in total or specific cranial nerve injuries between the two surgical approaches. CONCLUSIONS The risk of cranial nerve injuries was similar following either the retrojugular or anteromedial approach. Accessory nerve injuries were only seen in the retrojugular approach but this did not reach statistical significance.

scholarly journals Introduction: surgical management of skull base meningiomas

2017 ◽  
Vol 43 (videosuppl2) ◽  
pp. Intro ◽  
Author(s):  
Gabriel Zada ◽  
Mustafa K Başkaya ◽  
Mitesh V. Shah
Keyword(s):  
Skull Base ◽  
Wide Spectrum ◽  
Tumor Resection ◽  
Cranial Nerves ◽  
Foramen Magnum ◽  
Surgical Approaches ◽  
Cerebrospinal Fluid Leakage ◽  
Endoscopic Endonasal ◽  
Tuberculum Sellae ◽  
Skull Base Meningiomas

Meningiomas represent the most common primary intracranial neoplasm treated by neurosurgeons. Although multimodal treatment of meningiomas includes surgery, radiation-based treatments, and occasionally medical therapy, surgery remains the mainstay of treatment for most symptomatic meningiomas. Because of the intricate relationship of the dura mater and arachnoid mater with the central nervous system and cranial nerves, meningiomas can arise anywhere along the skull base or convexities, and occasionally even within the ventricular system, thereby mandating a catalog of surgical approaches that neurosurgeons may employ to individualize treatment for patients. Skull base meningiomas represent some of the most challenging pathology encountered by neurosurgeons, on account of their depth, invasion, vascularity, texture/consistency, and their relationship to bony anatomy, cranial nerves, and blood vessels. Resection of complex skull base meningiomas often mandates adequate bony removal to achieve sufficient exposure of the tumor and surrounding region, in order to minimize brain retraction and optimally identify, protect, control, and manipulate sensitive neurovascular structures. A variety of traditional skull base approaches has evolved to address complex skull base tumors, of which meningiomas are considered the paragon in terms of both complexity and frequency.In this supplemental video issue of Neurosurgical Focus, contributing authors from around the world provide instructional narratives demonstrating resection of a variety of skull base meningiomas arising from traditionally challenging origins, including the clinoid processes, tuberculum sellae, dorsum sellae, petroclival region, falco-tentorial region, cerebellopontine angle, and foramen magnum. In addition, two cases of extended endoscopic endonasal approaches for tuberculum sellae and dorsum sellae meningiomas are presented, representing the latest evolution in accessing the skull base for selected tumors. Along with key pearls for safe tumor resection, an equally important component of open and endoscopic skull base operations for meningiomas addressed by the contributing authors is the reconstruction aspect, which must be performed meticulously to prevent delayed cerebrospinal fluid leakage and/or infections. This curated assortment of instructional videos represents the authors’ optimal treatment paradigms pertaining to the selection of approach, setup, exposure, and principles to guide tumor resection for a wide spectrum of complex meningiomas.

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