Microsurgical resection of a large petroclival meningioma through an extended retrosigmoid approach: how I do it.

BACKGROUND

Petroclival meningiomas are challenging tumors. Several skull base approaches have been proposed in the last decades, with variable rates of postoperative morbidity and extent of resection.

METHODS

We herein reported the step-by-step microsurgical resection of a large petroclival meningioma through an extended retrosigmoid approach. Detailed surgical technique has been accompanied by a 2D operative video.

CONCLUSION

The extended retrosigmoid approach allowed for a safe gross total resection of the tumor, as confirmed by the postoperative MRI. The patient did not experience any new postoperative deficit, despite a transient diplopia, and was discharged on postoperative day 7.