[Transtemporal and transinfratemporal combined approaches in lateral skull base tumor surgery].

OBJECTIVE

Safe and complete removal of the tumor invading lateral skull base and its surrounding structures.

METHODS

Tumor removal through combined approach of temporal and infratemporal fossa with microsurgical techniques for preservation or reconstruction of lateral skull base and cranial nerves.

RESULTS

Sixty-two cases of benign and malignant tumors undergone surgery and followed up for five and more years showed: no recurrence in 67.7%, survival with tumor 25.8%, death 6.5% (only for malignancy). No complications of extra- or intra-cranial infection, cerebrospiral fluid leak and flap necrosis.

CONCLUSION

Combined approach of temporal and infratemporal fossa is suitable for the surgery of those tumors that involve temporal bone and middle or posterior intracranial fossa, as well as infratemporal fossa.