Modified pterion approach in the treatment of cerebral contusion and hematoma at the base of skull: A report of 78 cases

Objective: To sum up the experience in treating cerebral contusion and hematoma at the base of skull by modified pterion approach.Methods: Seventy-eight patients with cerebral contusion and hematoma at the base of skull underwent operation via mordified pterion approach.Results: Sixty-seven patients survived after the operation,with a fatality rate of 14.1%.The exoskeletal axis replacing rate was 65%.Conclusions: This approach provides an adequate exposure of the base of skull and gives an excellent decompression,which effectively reduces the postoperative brain edema and lowers the fatality rate.