Craniotomy repair with the retrosigmoid approach: the impact on quality of life of meticulous reconstruction of anatomical layers

Acta Neurochir (Wien). 2011 Nov;153(11):2255-8. doi: 10.1007/s00701-011-1113-3. Epub 2011 Jul 31.

Abstract

Introduction: Various cranial repairs have been described to limit the incidence of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak, the rate of infections, postoperative headache and local discomfort in patients undergoing cerebello-pontine angle surgery.

Materials and methods: The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of a feasible craniotomy procedure and cranial repair technique, which does not require bone replacers or filling materials, on postoperative outcome. We analysed postoperative results in a series of 34 patients undergoing cerebello-pontine angle surgery.

Discussion and conclusions: We observed a statistically significant reduced incidence of local discomfort, postoperative headache and CSF leak in patients who underwent such a reconstructive technique compared to those undergoing retrosigmoid craniectomy.

Publication types

  • Technical Report

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak
  • Cerebrospinal Fluid Rhinorrhea / prevention & control
  • Craniotomy / methods*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Neurilemmoma / pathology
  • Neurilemmoma / surgery*
  • Plastic Surgery Procedures / methods*
  • Quality of Life*
  • Radiography
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Skull / anatomy & histology
  • Skull / diagnostic imaging
  • Skull / surgery*