OBJECTIVESubtemporal transpetrosal ridge approach (STA) was introduced to remove the petroclival meningiomas with the simple, safe and minimal invasive character. It is suggested to replace the combined approach to reduce the morbidity and mortality.

METHODSSurgical anatomic study was done on 10 adult cadaver heads fixed in 10% formalin and 10 dry skulls. Ten cadaver heads were examined by bone-window CT scan pre and post-operation. The relationships of important anatomic structures and positions were measured and photographed.

RESULTSFor the STA, the important structures include Vein of Labbe, petrous bone and brain stem ventral space. The important data include the drilling space of the petrous ridge.

CONCLUSIONSSTA is an original approach to remove petroclival meningiomas. By drilling the petrous ridge, it allows the resecion of the tumor simple, safe and minimal invasive. It is suggested to replace the combined approach with STA to diminish the morbidity and mortality.