Endoscope-controlled microneurosurgery to treat middle fossa epidermoid cysts: technical case report.
OBJECTIVE
To present an alternative technique of endoscope-controlled microneurosurgery for the treatment of middle fossa epidermoid cysts.


METHODS
The three operations described were performed through an approximately 2-cm diameter temporal craniotomy after a straight skin incision was made. Resection was then performed under the magnification of a 30-degree rigid endoscope, which mandated the use of exclusively conventional microsurgical instruments.


RESULTS
Total resection was accomplished in all three patients with large middle fossa epidermoid cysts through a small temporal corticectomy, without damage to neurovascular structures.


CONCLUSIONS
This procedure allowed the association of a smaller craniotomy, better cosmetic results, and minor retraction of the brain to wide resection of the tumor and satisfactory functional outcomes.
Trivelato
Felipe P
FP
Division of Neurosurgery, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
Giannetti
Alexandre V
AV
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001927:Brain Diseases / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery*; D002648:Child; D035301:Cranial Fossa, Middle / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery*; D004814:Epidermal Cyst / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008866:Microsurgery / Q000379:methods*; D044583:Neuroendoscopy / Q000379:methods*; D019635:Neurosurgical Procedures / Q000379:methods; D016896:Treatment Outcome