Less invasive reconstruction of the temporalis muscle for pterional craniotomy: modified procedures

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Surgical Techniques

Background:

• A novel modified pterional craniotomy technique has been developed.
• The technique aims to be less invasive to the facial nerve and temporalis muscle.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and describe a modified pterional craniotomy procedure.
• To highlight the benefits of reduced invasiveness for patient outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Utilizes subfascial dissection and temporalis fascia reflection without interfascial dissection.
• Employs posterior displacement of the temporalis muscle, avoiding muscular incision.
• Preserves a fascia-periosteum complex cuff on the bone flap for easier muscle closure.

Main Results:

• The procedure avoids injury to the facial nerve and temporalis muscle.
• Satisfactory functional and cosmetic results are achieved post-surgery.

Conclusions:

• The modified pterional craniotomy reduces functional and cosmetic complications.
• This technique is recommended for pterional craniotomy to lower complications and costs.