Approach via the floor of the fourth ventricle for hydatid cyst of the pons

A very rare case of a pontine hydatid cyst is reported. It was diagnosed pr eoperatively on the basis of magnetic resonance imaging findings. The patie nt was operated on in the sitting position. Total excision of the cyst usin g the Dowling technique and gravity effect was performed through the floor of the fourth ventricle, The patient was discharged without extra neurologi cal sequel. The significance of an accurate preoperative diagnosis, surgica l approaches and technique in the management of this pathology is discussed . Copyright (C) 2000 S. Karger AG, Basel.