[Microsurgical anatomy of far-lateral transcondylar approach].
OBJECTIVE
To supply the far-lateral transcondylar approach with some basic microsurgical anatomy and to protect vital structure.


METHODS
We examined 10 cadveric adult heads and 10 dry skulls.


RESULTS
Mastoid process, jugular fossa, and occipital condyle were important signs. Inferior occipital triangle was formed by muscle rectus capitis posterior major, muscle oblique capitis superior, and muscle oblique capitus inferior, the important mark for distinguishing vertebral artery. Abdundant venous plexus around vertebral artery was the important bleeding source during operation.


CONCLUSIONS
The aforementioned anatomic landmarks assist in localization, protection of vital structures.
Beijing Neurosurgical Institute.
T
T
Jiang
Z
Z
Wang
C
C
Yu
D000328:Adult; D006801:Humans; D008416:Mastoid / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D008866:Microsurgery; D009333:Neck; D009442:Neurilemmoma / Q000601:surgery; D009777:Occipital Bone / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D019291:Skull Base / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D014711:Vertebral Artery / Q000033:anatomy & histology*