How I do it: lateral approach for craniocervical junction tumors

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Spinal Surgery
• Surgical Techniques

Background:

• The far lateral approach is established for craniocervical junction and upper cervical spinal canal lesions.
• High associated morbidity necessitates the development of less invasive surgical strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a tailored, less invasive lateral approach for craniocervical junction pathologies.
• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of this modified surgical technique.

Main Methods:

• A lateral approach preserving the occipital condyle and minimizing vertebral artery manipulation.
• Avoidance of sigmoid sinus skeletonization.
• Utilizing a linear incision and abdominal wall fat graft to reduce cerebrospinal fluid leakage.

Main Results:

• The approach provides adequate exposure for most tumors in the craniocervical region.
• Low complication rates were observed in patients undergoing this procedure.

Conclusions:

• This tailored lateral approach is effective for treating craniocervical junction tumors.
• The technique offers a favorable balance between surgical exposure and reduced patient morbidity.