Access to anteriorly placed tumours in the posterior fossa by medullotomy

Abstract

Access to tumours lying in front of the brain stem may be restricted by the neuraxis and cranial nerves, the tentorium, and the bony configuration of the skull base. When there is distortion and attenuation of the brain stem, direct access through the medulla should be considered. A case is described.

Key Words:

• Tumour
• posterior fossa
• medullotomy
• brain stem