Superior Orbital Rim Approach to the Anterior Circulation Aneurysms: Surgical Technique

Jeon, Byung Chan; Cho, Yong Woon

Abstract

OBJECTIVE
With the improvement of surgical techniques, instruments and diagnostic imaging, the aneurysmal surgery could be performed less invasively with less retraction of neural structure and more smaller craniotomy. The authors present a superior orbital rim approach as minimally invasive anterior circulation aneurysm surgery. METHODS: Superior orbital rim approach was performed for the treatment of the anterior circulation aneurysms with or without clinoidectomy. We considered the indications and limitations of this approach and compared this approach with conventional approaches. RESULTS: The operative technique can be used in all cases of anterior circulation aneurysms and could give us excellent results, especially, in internal carotid artery aneurysms. In cases of middle cerebral artery aneurysms, more wide and lateral approaches were used. In general, operation time was shortened and transfusion was not needed. CONCLUSION: The superior orbital rim approach is a good alternative procedure to conventional microsurgical approach in treating anterior circulation aneurysms.