ABSTRACT
The orbitopterional approach is an anterior skull base extension of the pterional
approach that provides greater exposure to the anterior cranial fossa, supra- and
parasellar regions, and anterior communicating artery complex. We describe the surgical
technique in a stepwise manner to create a one-piece orbitopterional craniotomy flap;
keyholes for the bone cuts are the MacCarty burr-hole and the anterolateral portion
of the inferior orbital fissure. This one-piece technique is less complicated than
the two-piece orbitopterional craniotomy and eliminates the need for complex reconstruction
of cosmetically important areas (i.e., the orbit and forehead).
KEYWORDS
Orbitopterional - anterior skull base - orbital osteotomy