Extended Fronto-Orbital Approaches to the Anterior Cranial Base: Variations on a Theme

Abstract

Combined frontal, orbital and zygomatic osteotomies have expanded the skull base surgeon's repertoire of approaches to the anterior skull base. Techniques borrowed from craniofacial surgery provide for extensive exposure of the orbit and anterior fossa while minimizing brain retraction. This article emphasizes the variations on the theme of fronto-orbital craniotomy that allow this approach to be adapted to the precise location and extent of the lesion to be excised. Familiarity with these versatile techniques is an important part of the skull base surgeon's armamentarium.