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Lateral Transorbital Endoscope-Assisted Approach to the Cavernous Sinus
Evan D Bander1, Joseph A Carnevale1, Umberto Tosi1
1Department of Neurosurgery, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, New York, USA.
Operative Neurosurgery (Hagerstown, Md.)
|July 10, 2023
Summary
The lateral transorbital approach (LTOA) offers a minimally invasive keyhole option for accessing the cavernous sinus (CS). This technique achieved surgical goals in all patients, with some experiencing improved cranial nerve function.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Minimally Invasive Surgery
- Skull Base Surgery
Background:
- Cavernous sinus (CS) surgery presents challenges due to its small, complex anatomy.
- The lateral transorbital approach (LTOA) is a keyhole technique for accessing the lateral CS.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the LTOA for CS lesions.
- To describe patient indications, surgical outcomes, and complications.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of six patients treated with LTOA between 2020-2023.
- Analysis of surgical goals, extent of resection, and neurological outcomes.
Main Results:
- LTOA successfully achieved surgical goals for various CS pathologies (dermoid cyst, schwannoma, etc.).
- Mean resection extent was 64.6%. Preoperative cranial neuropathies improved in 50% of affected patients.
- No new permanent cranial neuropathies occurred; one vascular injury was managed endovascularly.
Conclusions:
- The LTOA provides a valuable minimal access corridor to the lateral CS.
- Careful patient selection and realistic surgical goals are crucial for successful LTOA outcomes.

