title: Midline aneurysms of the vertebrobasilar junction: an effective anterior approach.
abstract: There are acknowledged difficulties associated with operations on midline aneurysms at the vertebrobasilar junction. This report describes a series of such aneurysms treated by an anterior approach using a Le Fort maxillotomy to gain access via the clivus to the aneurysm. In each case the aneurysm was dealt with satisfactorily with no long-term morbidity or mortality. Attention is directed to the necessity for a water-tight dural seal postoperatively. We advocate wider use of this technique in appropriate circumstances.
authors.affiliation: Atkinson Morley's Hospital, Wimbledon, London, UK.
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Uttley
authors.forename: D J
authors.initials: DJ
authors.lastname: Archer
authors.forename: W A
authors.initials: WA
authors.lastname: Taylor
authors.forename: B A
authors.initials: BA
authors.lastname: Bell
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002533:Cerebral Angiography; D003399:Craniotomy / Q000379:methods; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D002532:Intracranial Aneurysm / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D008297:Male; D008437:Maxilla / Q000601:surgery; D008875:Middle Aged; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000209:etiology; D014715:Vertebrobasilar Insufficiency / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*