[Preservation of olfaction in bifrontal craniotomies for lesions of the anterior and middle cranial fossa].

OBJECTIVE

The preservation of the olfactory tract during bifrontal approach for lesions located in the frontal skull base and the supra- and parasellar region has not previously been investigated.

METHODS

In our study 12 patients underwent surgery for various lesions via the basal subfrontal route. All patients were observed prospectively, olfaction testing was performed pre- and postoperatively by an independent otorhinolaryngologist.

RESULTS

We obtained complete preservation of the olfactory tracts and normal postoperative olfaction in all 12 cases.

CONCLUSION

The bifrontal approach allowed a bilateral, wide operative field with excellent orientation and views of important structures. The shortcoming of this method, damage of the olfactory tracts and postoperative anosmia can be overcome.