Endoscope-controlled microneurosurgery to treat middle fossa epidermoid cysts: technical case report.

Abstract

To present an alternative technique of endoscope-controlled microneurosurgery for the treatment of middle fossa epidermoid cysts. 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. Total resection was accomplished in all three patients with large middle fossa epidermoid cysts through a small temporal corticectomy, without damage to neurovascular structures. 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.