How I do it—Helsinki style mini-pterional craniotomy for clipping of middle cerebral artery bifurcation aneurysms
Michael Veldeman, Tobias Rossmann, Mika Niemelä, Martin Lehečka
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Different versions of the mini-pterional (MPT) approach have been described often with the idea the smaller the better. Attempts to reduce incision and craniotomy size for better cosmetic results should not be performed at the expense of safety. METHOD: We present our take on the MPT as a balance between size and safety which can be adopted by vascular neurosurgeons in training. The craniotomy stays within the confines of the superior temporal line and is completely covered by temporal muscle after closure. CONCLUSION: This approach is cosmetically superior while still offering anatomical familiarity and sufficient instrument maneuverability.
Topics & Concepts
MedicineClipping (morphology)CraniotomyInterventional radiologyMiddle cerebral arteryNeurosurgeryNeuroradiologyAneurysmNeurologySurgeryCardiologyPsychiatryLinguisticsIschemiaPhilosophyMeningioma and schwannoma managementIntracranial Aneurysms: Treatment and ComplicationsHead and Neck Surgical Oncology