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Basal Cisternostomy for Severe TBI: Surgical Technique and Cadaveric Dissection
L Giammattei1, D Starnoni1, M Messerer1,2
1Department of Neurosurgery, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland.
Introduction:
Cisternostomy is emerging as a novel surgical technique in the setting of severe brain trauma. Different surgical techniques have been proposed with a variable degree of epidural bone work. We present here the surgical technique as it is currently performed in our Institution.
Methods:
Anatomical dissection of one adult cadaveric head, injected and non-formalin fixed was perfomed. A large right fronto-temporo-parietal craniotomy was accomplished. Extradural sphenoidal drilling till opening of the superior orbital fissure was performed. The microsurgical anatomy of basal cisternostomy was then explored.
Results:
A step by step description of the surgical technique, enriched with cadaveric and intraoperative images, was made.
Conclusion:
Basal cisternostomy is a promising surgical technique that does not necessarily include complex surgical maneuvers. Trained neurosurgeon can safely implement it in their clinical practice.
