Reconstruction of the Internal Auditory Canal after Vestibular Schwannomas Removal Through Retrosigmoid-Transmeatal Approach

Objectives: To present a technique of internal auditory canal (IAC) reconstruction using a pediculated dural flap, after removal of vestibular schwannomas through the retrosigmoid craniotomy.

Methods: From a series of 213 patients with vestibular schwannomas operated between January 2008 and March 2016 through the retrosigmoid-transmeatal approach, 183 underwent reconstruction of the internal auditory canal with a pediculated dural flap. The IAC was drilled towards the fundus preserving the labyrinthine structures. The dura mater over the IAC was dissected from the bone, remaining pediculated at the entrance of the jugular foramen. This dural flap was used to cover the cranial nerves inside the IAC after tumor removal. Opened mastoid cells and the IAC were closed with muscle or fat grafts and fibrin glue.

Results: Reconstruction of the IAC using the described technique was possible in in 183 cases. Fifteen patients (6.8%) developed postoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage and seven patients required reoperation (3.2%) to close the fistulae. Postoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations showed the presence of CSF within the IAC around the preserved cranial nerves.

Conclusions: This technique of IAC reconstruction after surgical resection of vestibular schwannomas may avoid scar and adhesion of muscle or fat tissue with preserved cranial nerves, allowing CSF enter inside the IAC. It may help to identify tumor remnants and/or recurrences in postoperative MRI examinations. Comparative studies are needed to evaluate if this technique improves postoperative hearing and facial nerve outcomes.

No conflict of interest has been declared by the author(s).