Background: Lesions of the foramen magnum (FM) and craniocervical junction area are traditionally managed surgically through anterior, anterolateral, and posterolateral skull-base approaches. This anatomical study aimed to compare the usefulness of a modified extended endoscopic approach, the so-called far-medial endonasal approach (FMEA), versus the traditional posterolateral far-lateral approach (FLA).
Methods: Ten fixed silicon-injected heads specimens were used in the Skull Base ENT-Neurosurgery Laboratory of the University Hospital of Strasbourg, France. A total of 20 FLAs and 10 FMEAs were realized. A high-resolution computed tomography scan was performed for quantitative analysis of the different approaches. The analysis aimed to estimate the extent of surgical exposure and freedom of movement (maneuverability) through the operating channel using a polygonal surface model to obtain a morphometric estimation of the area of interest (surface and volume) on postdissection computed tomography scans using Slicer 3D software.
Results: FMEA allows for a more direct route to the anterior FM, with wider brainstem exposure compared with the FLA and an excellent visualization of all anterior midline structures. The limitations of the FMEA include the deep and narrow surgical corridor and difficulty in reaching lesions located laterally over the jugular foramen and hypoglossal canal.
Conclusions: The FMEA and FLA are both effective surgical routes to reach FM and craniocervical junction lesions. Modern skull base surgeons should have a good command of both because they appear complementary. This anatomical study provides the tools for comprehensive preoperative evaluations and selection of the most appropriate surgical approach.
Keywords: Chordoma; Cranial base approaches; Far lateral approach; Far medial endonasal approach; Foramen magnum; Meningioma; Skull base surgery.
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