pterional approach
Pronunciation: TEH-ree-ohn-al
Frontotemporal craniotomy technique providing access to anterior skull base and middle cerebral artery territory.
Full Definition
A widely used neurosurgical approach involving a frontotemporal craniotomy with removal of the sphenoid wing to access the anterior and middle skull base regions. The pterional approach provides excellent exposure to the suprasellar cistern, middle cerebral artery bifurcation, anterior communicating artery complex, and parasellar regions. This technique is commonly employed for aneurysm clipping, tumor resection, and bypass procedures, offering good cosmetic results due to the incision's location within the hairline and temporal muscle coverage of the bone work.
Usage
Usage note: Named after the pterion, the H-shaped suture junction; capitalize when referring to specific surgical technique.
In Context
- "A standard pterional approach was utilized for clipping of the anterior communicating artery aneurysm." — operative report
- "The pterional approach offers optimal visualization for microsurgical management of middle cerebral artery bifurcation aneurysms." — surgical technique description