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A morphometric and analytical cadaver dissection study of a tumor-simulation balloon model
Baran Bozkurt1, Evgenii Belykh2, Kaan Yağmurlu1
1Department of Neurosurgery, Barrow Neurological Institute, St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ, USA.
Summary
A novel balloon model simulating parasellar tumors in cadavers improved surgical access via orbitozygomatic craniotomy. This approach enhanced working angles and exposure, aiding neurosurgical training and research.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Anatomical Studies
- Surgical Simulation
Background:
- Parasellar region tumors present significant surgical challenges.
- Orbitozygomatic (OZ) craniotomy is a key approach for accessing this area.
- Accurate anatomical understanding is crucial for successful resection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the anatomical effects of a balloon-inflation tumor model in the parasellar region.
- To evaluate surgical access improvements using a modified supraorbital OZ craniotomy with this model.
- To assess the model's utility for neurosurgical training and research.
Main Methods:
- Bilateral modified supraorbital OZ craniotomies were performed on 5 silicon-injected cadaver heads.
- A balloon catheter mimicked a parasellar tumor, with inflation quantifying displacement.
- Frameless stereotaxy measured working area, surgical freedom, and angles of attack before and after balloon inflation.
Main Results:
- Balloon inflation displaced key anatomical structures (e.g., pituitary stalk, anterior chiasm, ICA junctions) by 14-51%.
- Tumor simulation significantly increased the vertical angle of attack (67%), area of exposure (83%), and surgical freedom (58%).
- The model effectively widened surgical corridors and acted as a natural retractor.
Conclusions:
- A balloon-inflation model effectively simulates parasellar tumor effects on anatomy.
- This simulation enhances surgical corridors and access, particularly vertically.
- The model provides a valuable cadaveric scenario for neurosurgical training and anatomical research.
