Partial sigmoid sinus release in translabyrinthine approach for cerebellopontine angle lesions

ABSTRACT

In this work, a modification of the routine translabyrinthine approach to cerebellopontine angle lesions is introduced. This modification is the partial release of the sigmoid sinus anteriorly and superiorly from its dural attachments. This allows retraction of the sinus posteriorly and inferiorly and consequently marked widening of the originally confined approach. 5 cases with large cerebellopontine angle tumors more than 4 cm in diameter were excised totally using this modification. Anatomical study on 10 fresh cadaveric specimens was carried out and showed that the modification increased the surface area of the window through which the surgeon operate by an average of 62%