The juxtacondylar approach to the jugular foramen.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to describe the juxtacondylar approach to jugular foramen tumors.

METHODS

Through an anterolateral approach, the third segment of the vertebral artery (between C2 and the dura mater) is controlled. The C1 transverse process of the atlas, which is located just inferiorly to the jugular foramen, is then removed. The dissection of the internal jugular vein is performed as high as possible, with control of the IXth, Xth, XIth, and XIIth cranial nerves. If required by a tumor extending into the neck, the internal and external carotid arteries can be exposed and controlled. Through a partial mastoidectomy and after removal of the bone covering the jugular tubercle, the end of the sigmoid sinus and then the posteroinferior part of the jugular foramen are reached.

RESULTS

This technique is efficient to expose tumors extending into the jugular foramen. Contrary to the infratemporal approach, it has the main advantage of avoiding petrous bone drilling and associated potential complications. Lower cranial nerves are well exposed in the neck. In patients with schwannomas, complete resection with selective dividing of only the few involved rootlets can be achieved.

CONCLUSION

The juxtacondylar approach is an efficient approach to tumors located in the jugular foramen. It necessitates control of the third segment of the vertebral artery but has the advantage of avoiding complications associated with petrous bone drilling. Extension beyond the jugular foramen requires combination with an infratemporal or a retrosigmoid approach.