Retrosigmoid Approach for Resection of a Left Pontine Cavernoma via Paratrigeminal Safe Entry Zone

A 61-year-old female presented with intermittent left facial tingling and dizziness/vertigo. Workup with MRI demonstrating a left pontine lesion consistent with a cavernoma with an associated developmental venous anomaly. Microsurgical resection was planned via a left retrosigmoid approach to the paratrigeminal safe entry zone. Neuro-navigation with DTI and intraoperative brainstem surface mapping was used to plan our trajectory and entry zone. Gross total resection was achieved. Patient developed mild vocal cord paresis and facial numbness.

Publication History

Article published online:
07 February 2025