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Resection of an inferior pontine cavernous malformation using a far-lateral transcondylar approach

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Abstract

Background

When considering an approach to remove a symptomatic brainstem cavernous malformation, exposure and adequate visualization of the lesion with minimal morbidity should be the primary goals.

Method

We describe the use of the far-lateral transcondylar technique to access a cavernous malformation in the lower anterior pons.

Results

This approach accesses the inferior belly of the pons in an inferior-to-superior direction, where the cavernous malformation approaches the surface between the root exit zones of the abducens (VI) cranial nerves.

Conclusion

We recommend adding this technique to the repertoire of approaches used to resect these technically challenging lesions in selected cases.

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Acknowledgments

We thank Kristin Kraus, M.Sc., for editorial assistance in preparing this paper.

Conflicts of interest

None.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Neurosurgery, University of Utah, Clinical Neurosciences Center, 175 N. Medical Drive East, Salt Lake City, UT, 84132, USA

    Sarah T. Garber & William T. Couldwell

Authors
  1. Sarah T. Garber
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  2. William T. Couldwell
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to William T. Couldwell.

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Garber, S.T., Couldwell, W.T. Resection of an inferior pontine cavernous malformation using a far-lateral transcondylar approach. Acta Neurochir 153, 2461–2464 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00701-011-1201-4

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00701-011-1201-4

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