This video demonstrates a transcanal endoscopic infracochlear approach to the petrous apex in a patient with a large cholesterol granuloma. The patient presented with a history of profound left sensorineural hearing loss, hemifacial spasm, and House Brackmann Grade 2 facial function. Preoperative imaging demonstrated a T1 and T2 hyperintense heterogenous lesion in both petrous apices with the left being larger than the right on magentic resonance imaging. A computed tomography scan (CT) of the temporal bones demonstrates extension of the left petrous apex lesion into the internal auditory canal and cochlea.
Dr. Isaacson has had 2 patients who have had significant recovery of their bone line after using an infracochlear approach. In the unlikely event that the patient experiences hearing loss in the other ear, their cochlea is preserved for a possible CI. However, the patients hearing loss is likely secondary to the 8th nerve involvement of cholesterol granuloma erosion into IAC.
The patient in this surgical video has been monitored for a year. One year postop CT shows aeration of the apex. This patient’s facial spasm has resolved. Dr. Isaacson has used stents in the past, but in this case felt the opening was large enough that he could forego it. Patient did not recover their hearing.
DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.17797/1wq11j68wa