REFINEMENT OF THE EXTRADURAL ANTERIOR CLINOIDECTOMY

Abstract

Both intra- and extradural techniques for anterior clinoidectomy are important parts of the neurosurgical armamentarium. Sharp incision of the orbitotemporal periosteal fold to increase the extradural exposure of the anterior clinoid process should be made at the level of the sphenoid ridge and restricted to the periosteal bridge. Subsequent blunt elevation of the temporal fossa dura should be performed; however, peeling of the temporal fossa dura should be limited to avoid cranial nerve morbidity.