Circumferential Tympano - Mastoid Access the Sinus Tympani Area

Abstract

Primary emphasis is on the juxtaposition of the antero-posterior view of the surgeon as a complement to the standard postero-anterior view. This antero-posterior view permits greater latitude in dealing with lesions of the sinus tympani cellular system. Although this new visualization approach may entirely obviate the surgical-anatomical necessity for the posterior tympanotomy-facial recess bone dissections in many cases, it may be useful to combine both in some cases. A circumferential 270° surgical approach to the temporal bone is described. It allows for circumnavigation of the tympano-mastoid area, for specific surgical access requirements.