Endoscopic-assisted combined transcrusal anterior petrosal approach for resection of large petroclival meningioma: operative video and nuances of technique

In this illustrative video, the authors demonstrate an endoscopic-assisted combined transcrusal anterior petrosal approach for resection of a large petroclival meningioma with significant brainstem compression involving Meckel’s cave. This unique petrosal variant provides increased petroclival exposure that can potentially preserve hearing by combining a transcrusal labyrinthectomy with anterior petrosectomy (Kawase’s approach). The advantages include multidirectional angles of attack to the brainstem and petroclival region without cerebellar retraction. Endoscopic assistance allows expanded visualization into deep surgical corridors. The surgery was performed in a two-stage fashion, and a near-total resection was achieved with cranial nerve and hearing preservation. The operative nuances are demonstrated. The video can be found here: https://stream.cadmore.media/r10.3171/2022.1.FOCVID21257