The transcochlear approach revisited

Objective: To evaluate the indications for, techniques used in, and patient outcomes after surgery with the transcochlear approach in the treatment of petroclival tumors. Methods: Retrospective review of 24 cases between 1985 and 1995 at the Hous e Ear Clinic (Los Angeles, CA, U.S.A.). Results: Meningioma was the most common tumor. Complete removal was achieve d in 82% of tumors after one- or two-stage surgeries (average follow-up tim e, 36 months). The second-stage surgery was a middle fossa transpetrous app roach. Most patients had some degree of facial nerve dysfunction immediatel y after surgery, and 12 of 20 patients subsequently improved to House-Brack mann Grade III or better. Fifty-nine percent of patients had permanent neur ologic sequelae because of either the surgery or their disease. Conclusion: The transcochlear approach is best suited to treating petrocliv al intradural tumors that extend ventrally to the brainstem in patients wit hout serviceable hearing. Temporary facial weakness is expected as a result of posterior facial nerve transposition.