Frontotemporal-Orbitozygomatic Approach and Its Variants: Technical Nuances and Video Illustration

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Surgical Anatomy
• Skull Base Surgery

Background:

• The frontotemporal-orbitozygomatic (FTOz) approach is an advanced surgical technique extending the traditional pterional approach.
• It provides extensive access to the skull base, including anterior, middle, and central cranial fossae, and the upper posterior cranial fossa.

Discussion:

• The FTOz approach minimizes the need for brain retraction, offering a wider surgical corridor.
• It provides a panoramic view, facilitating precise trajectories for complex intracranial lesions.
• Key indications include large sphenoid wing meningiomas, suprasellar tumors, orbital apex lesions, and aneurysms.

Key Insights:

• Advantages include wide access and minimal retraction.
• Disadvantages and potential pitfalls are discussed.
• Technical nuances are detailed for educational purposes.

Outlook:

• The study provides an updated report on this surgical approach.
• High-quality dissections, 3D models, and 4K videos serve as educational resources.
• A case example illustrates the 1-piece orbitozygomatic technique.