Precise Localization in Craniotomy With a Retrosigmoid Keyhole Approach: Microsurgical Anatomy and Clinical Study

We aimed to explore a method of precise localization within craniotomy based on skull anatomical landmarks via the suboccipital retrosigmoid approach.

Craniometric measurements were taken from 15 adult dry skulls and eight cadaver head specimens. In the anatomical study, the keypoint corresponded to the transverse-sigmoid sinus junction's corresponding point on the external surface of the temporal mastoid process, eight cadaveric heads underwent a simulated craniotomy using the suboccipital retrosigmoid approach. The center of the burr hole is precisely oriented 12 mm vertically above the top point of the mastoid groove based on the line between the infraorbital margin and the upper edge of the external auditory canal. Clinical application was verified in clinical surgery by evaluating the accuracy, safety, rapidity, and minimal invasiveness of the procedure in 29 patients.

No venous sinus injuries were observed. Within clinical application, 29 patients underwent craniotomy using the suboccipital retrosigmoid approach. The operative area was clearly exposed in all patients and the microsurgical anatomy of the intracranial region after the dura mater incision was satisfactory. No venous sinus ruptures were observed. The average craniectomy time was 27.02 ± 0.86 min. The diameter of the bone window was 1.7-2.9 cm.

We conclude that the method can ensure safe, accurate, and rapid craniotomy with good vision while avoiding injury to the venous sinus.