[Microsurgical treatment of apical region by combined orbital pterygoid approach]

C Sha1, H Xie, Y Yang

  • 1Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Hospital, Beijing 100730, China.

Abstract

Insights

The combined orbital pterygoid approach effectively treats orbital apical region tumors, offering better surgical access than traditional methods. This microsurgical technique achieved complete tumor removal in most cases with no fatalities.

Area of Science:

  • Neurosurgery
  • Ophthalmology
  • Surgical Oncology

Context:

  • Orbital apical region tumors present significant surgical challenges due to their anatomical location.
  • Traditional surgical approaches, such as transorbital and transcranial, offer limited access to these deep-seated tumors.

Purpose:

  • To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the combined orbital pterygoid approach for microsurgical resection of orbital apical region tumors.
  • To analyze the surgical methods and outcomes in a series of patients treated with this approach.

Summary:

  • A retrospective analysis of 21 cases treated with the combined orbital pterygoid approach for orbital apical region tumors was performed.
  • Complete tumor resection was achieved in 18 cases (85.7%), with partial resection in 3 cases (14.3%).
  • No mortality was reported in the study cohort.

Impact:

  • The combined orbital pterygoid approach provides superior access and visualization for microsurgical tumor resection in the orbital apex.
  • This approach, coupled with meticulous surgical technique, hemostasis, and gentle manipulation, is crucial for minimizing postoperative complications and improving patient outcomes.