J Korean Neurosurg Soc.  2007 May;41(5):347-351.

New Technique for Surgery of Petrous Apex Cholesterol Granuloma

• Kim EM
• Nam SI

Abstract

The authors present a new technique for surgery of cholesterol granuloma (CG) at the petrous apex. An epidural middle fossa approach is used to expose and remove the cyst, with silicon tube drainage into the sphenoid sinus via the anterolateral cavernous sinus triangle between the first and second divisions of the trigeminal nerve. This novel method is less invasive skull base approach to the petrous apex and very effective for minimizing recurrence of CGs within the petrous apex.

Keyword

Petrous apex; Cholesterol granuloma; Surgical technique; Skull base surgery; Drainage

MeSH Terms

Cavernous Sinus
Cholesterol*
Drainage
Granuloma*
Recurrence
Silicones
Skull Base
Sphenoid Sinus
Trigeminal Nerve
Cholesterol
Silicones