Basilar aneurysm surgery: the subtemporal approach with section of the zygomatic arch

The authors propose a modification of the classic subtemporal approach for basilar aneurysm. This modification allows excellent access to the floor of the temporal fossa, the tentorial edge, and the interpeduncular fossa with less brain retraction than is required with the original technique. The procedure is described, our experience with it is presented, and suggestions are made for its use.