The Bonebridge active bone conduction system: a fast and safe technique for a middle fossa approach

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Otolaryngology
• Medical Devices

Background:

• The transmastoid pre-sigmoid approach is standard for Bonebridge system implantation in normal anatomy.
• Alternative approaches like retrosigmoid or middle fossa are necessary for anatomical variants or post-surgical cases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe and evaluate a preferred surgical technique for the middle fossa approach using the Neuro Drill.
• To assess the impact of this technique on surgical time and complication rates.

Main Methods:

• A specific surgical technique for the middle fossa approach was detailed.
• A 14 mm drill head (Neuro Drill) was employed to create the bone bed in the squamous temporal bone.
• Surgical duration and complication incidence were analyzed.

Main Results:

• All procedures were completed in under 30 minutes.
• Creation of the 14 mm bone bed required only 14 seconds.
• No complications were reported during the 6-45 month follow-up period.

Conclusions:

• The Neuro Drill facilitates an easy and efficient middle fossa approach.
• This technique substantially reduces surgical time.
• The complication rate remains unchanged, indicating a safe procedure.