Exo- and endoscopic lateral orbital wall approach for the medial temporal lobe glioma: how I do it.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The endoscopic transorbital approach provides a direct access to the medial temporal lobe (MTL). However, when excising a highly vascular tumour, a wider access route that enables the concurrent use of standard neurosurgical instruments with both hands is preferable. METHOD: We described the concept and technique of the lateral orbital wall approach (LOWA), which comprises orbitotomy and mini-craniotomy to treat MTL lesions using an exoscope and endoscope. CONCLUSION: The LOWA provides a safe and natural surgical corridor to the MTL and enables 2- or 3-hand surgery. Hence, LOWA can potentially improve safety and efficiency to treat MTL lesions.