Abstract
Object. The authors studied the microsurgical anatomy and endoscopic features of the pineal region and third ventricle to describe a combined microsurgical-endoscopic infratentorial-supracerebellar approach to the posterior third ventricle. Such an approach exposes the pineal gland and its complex neurovascular structures so that the third ventricle can be reached through a minimally invasive parapineal incision. Methods. The approach was studied in 10 adult cadaveric heads, six fresh and four formalin fixed, by using an operative microscope with a magnification level of 6 to 40 and the assistance of an endoscope. The endoscope-assisted infratentorial- supracerebellar approach affords a complete view of the third ventricle from a posterior perspective. The third ventricle is entered through a parapineal incision using the natural space between the internal cerebral vein and the vein of Rosenthal located above the superior colliculi. Conclusions. The infratentorial-supracerebellar approach to the third ventricle follows a natural corridor and requires minimal retraction and resection of critical neural structures. With the use of the endoscope, an unsurpassed view into the third ventricle from a posterior perspective is obtained.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 409-414 |
Number of pages | 6 |
Journal | Journal of neurosurgery |
Volume | 104 PEDIATRICS |
Issue number | SUPPL. 6 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Jun 2006 |
Keywords
- Endoscopy
- Infratentorial-supracerebellar approach
- Microsurgical anatomy
- Pediatric neurosurgery
- Pineal region
- Third ventricle
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Surgery
- Clinical Neurology