[Anterior petrosal approach - analysis of the surgical technique in cadavers simulation]

The aim of the study was to present consecutive stages of the anterior petrosal approach (APA). Eight simulations of APA were performed on non-fixed human cadavers without any known pathologies of the head and neck. The consecutive stages of the procedure were documented with photographs and schemes. The starting point for APA is a temporal craniotomy and extradural exposition of the base of the middle cranial fossa. Mobilisation of the trigeminal nerve allows for removal of the apex of the petrous bone. Approach to the upper part of the clivus is achieved by elevation of the temporal lobe and section of the tentorium and superior petrosal sinus with surrounding dura. Anterior petrosal approach is a reproducible technique, which provides surgical penetration of the upper clivus and related regions. This approach is particularly useful in the treatment of tumors of the mentioned above anatomical areas.