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Mini-temporal approach as an alternative to the classical pterional approach for resective temporal region surgeries
Nijiati Kudulaiti1,2,3,4, Feili Liu1,2,3,4, N U Farrukh Hameed1,2,3,4
1Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
Background:
Classical pterional appoach for temporal surgeries may cause atrophy and dysfunction of temporalis, injury to the facial nerve, and unnecessary cortical exposure. As an alternative to the classical pterional approach for such surgeries, we hereby describe an mini-temporal approach which reduces these risks and proven to be practical in neurological surgeries.
Material And Methods:
In the mini-temporal incision design, the frontal end of the incision never surpassed the hairline at the level of temporal line, and a one-layer skin-galea-muscle flap was detached from the cranium, effectively avoiding the injuries of facial nerve. The surgical bone window was completely located underneath the temporalis muscle, allowing it to be completely repositioned postoperatively.
Results:
We demonstrated the application of mini-temporal approach in a variety of temporal region tumors, which can be applied to complete successful resective surgeries while effectively reducing injuries to extra-temporal cortex, temporalis, and facial nerve. There were no postoperative complications related to extra-temporal cortical damage, atrophy of temporalis, or injury to the facial nerve.
Conclusion:
The mini-temporal approach can effectively shorten the time of craniotomy and closure, decrease the size of bony removal, increase the restoration of temporalis during closure, and lower the chance of facial nerve injury. Therefore, it improves cosmetic outcomes and reduces the risk of unintentional extra-temporal cortical injury, which fully embodies the minimally invasive principle in neurosurgery.
Insights
The mini-temporal approach offers a safer alternative for temporal surgeries, reducing risks like facial nerve injury and temporalis muscle damage. This minimally invasive technique improves cosmetic outcomes and patient recovery in neurosurgery.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Minimally Invasive Surgical Techniques
Background:
- Classical pterional approach risks include temporalis atrophy, facial nerve injury, and cortical exposure.
- The mini-temporal approach is presented as a practical alternative to mitigate these risks.
Discussion:
- The mini-temporal approach involves a specific incision design and a single-layer flap to protect the facial nerve.
- The surgical bone window placement under the temporalis muscle facilitates its repositioning, minimizing muscle damage.
Key Insights:
- Successful application in resecting temporal region tumors with reduced extra-temporal cortex, temporalis, and facial nerve injuries.
- Absence of postoperative complications related to cortical damage, temporalis atrophy, or facial nerve injury.
Outlook:
- This approach shortens craniotomy and closure times, reduces bone removal, and enhances temporalis muscle restoration.
- It aligns with minimally invasive principles, improving cosmetic results and reducing unintentional cortical injury risks.
