Subtemporal transtentorial approach for excision of tumors in mid-superior petroclival region

Objective To improve the therapeutic effect of the petroclival tumors removed via subtemporal transtentorial approach by microsurgical techniques.Methods Thirty-two patients with tumors in mid-superior petroclival region,admitted to our hospital from January 2005 to December 2011 and underwent microsurgery through subtemporal transtentorial approach.The clinical manifestations,surgical methods and treatment efficacy were retrospectively analyzed.Results Thirty-two patients with tumors included 20 meningiomas,7 neurilemmoma and 5 epidermoid cyst.Total resection was achieved in 22 cases,subtotal resection in 6 cases,and partial resection in 4 cases.Fifteen patients developed new postoperative neurological deficits.The patients were followed up for 3 to 12 months,and the neurological functions recovered in varying degrees.Conclusions The subtemporal transtentorial approach is one of the optimal approaches to remove the mid-superior petroclival tumors because of its mini-invasion and less complications,indicating for a wide application in clinic. Key words: Subtemporal transtentorial approach ;  Microsurgery;  Petroclival tumors