Clipping Ophthalmic Segment Artery Aneurysms Using a Modified Subdural Dolenc Approach: Classification and Experience Sharing

Oper Neurosurg (Hagerstown). 2022 Aug 1;23(2):154-163. doi: 10.1227/ons.0000000000000262. Epub 2022 May 26.

Abstract

Background: Ophthalmic segment artery aneurysms (OSAs) are difficult to clip; therefore, improvement of the surgical method is of great significance to the prevention of complications, and the classification of the aneurysms is essential to formulate a reasonable surgical plan.

Objective: To explore the strategies and effects of surgery for OSAs using a modified subdural Dolenc approach.

Methods: The clinical data of 38 patients (12 men and 26 women, aged 48-73 years) with OSA were analyzed retrospectively. A total of 44 aneurysms were identified, 40 of which were OSAs. The 40 aneurysms were divided into types Ia1 (n = 2), Ia2 (n = 2), Ib (n = 6), IIa (n = 4), IIb (n = 4), IIIa (n = 0), IIIb (n = 4), IIIc (n = 16), and IV (n = 2) based on preoperative images. Thirty-nine OSAs were operated successfully through pterional craniotomy combined with the modified subdural Dolenc approach, and 1 aneurysm was clipped through the contralateral approach. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using the Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS).

Results: Thirty-nine OSAs were clipped, and one was wrapped. Visual dysfunction, headache, and dizziness improved after the operation in 18 patients. One patient had new visual impairment, and there were no deaths. At discharge, the GOS score was 5 in 36 cases, 4 in 1 case, and 3 in 1 case. Thirty-seven patients had a GOS score of 5, and 1 patient had a score of 3 at 6 months after the operation.

Conclusion: The modified subdural Dolenc approach (Zheng approach) for clipping OSAs may be associated with less trauma and good postoperative outcomes.

MeSH terms

  • Craniotomy / methods
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Intracranial Aneurysm* / diagnostic imaging
  • Intracranial Aneurysm* / surgery
  • Male
  • Ophthalmic Artery
  • Retrospective Studies