Suboccipital Approach

Surgical Procedure

Suboccipital Approach

Indications for Surgery

Acoustic Neuroma (Vestibular Scwannnoma), Vestibular Nerve Section, Vascular Compression, Meningioma, Skull Base Fracture, Facial Nerve Decompression, Superior Semicircular Canal Dehiscence, Skull Base Tumors, Aneurysms, Cholesterol Granulomma.

Anesthesia

General

Surgical Time

1.5-4 hrs

Hospital Admission

Yes, 2-4 days

Surgical Procedure

Incision behind the ear approximately 3-4 inches with entrance made through the skull by removal of a square of bone approximately 1-1.5 inches square. The dura (tough fibrous lining found on the inner surface of the skull) is opened allowing access to the structures of the cranial cavity, ear and skull base from behind. Retraction of the cerebellum is necessary to expose the area of work. Closure is accomplished by suturing the dura in a watertight fashion, replacing the square of bone and closing the skin and underlying tissues.