Infratemporal Fossa Approach for Glomus Tumors of the Temporal Bone

Abstract

The surgical experience with 74 glomus tumors of the temporal bone is presented. The article proposes new refinements in the classification of types C and D tumors and describes in detail the technique of blind sack closure of the external auditory canal, double ligation of the sigmoid sinus and the use of a special infratemporal fossa retractor. The postoperative treatment and intraoperative management of the internal carotid artery, facial nerve and cranial nerves IX, X, XI and XII including the technique and results of a new type of V-VII anastomosis are discussed.