Microsurgical Anatomy of the Hypoglossal Nerve in the Lateral Approaches to the Craniovertebral Junction: A Study on Fresh Non-Formalin-Fixed Human Specimens

J Neurol Surg A Cent Eur Neurosurg DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1739222The aim of this anatomical study is to describe the anatomy of the hypoglossal nerve (HN) from its origin to the extracranial portion as it appears by performing a combined posterolateral and anterolateral approach to the craniovertebral junction (CVJ). Twelve fresh, non-formalin-fixed adult cadaveric heads (24 sides) were analyzed for the simulation of the combined lateral approach to the CVJ. The HN is divided into three main parts: cisternal, intracanalicular, and extracranial The anatomical relationships between the HN and other nerves, muscles, arteries and veins were carefully recorded, and some measurements were made between the HN and related structures. Thus, various landmarks were determined for the easy identification of the HN. Understanding the detailed anatomy of the HN and its relationships with the surrounding structures is crucial to prevent some complications during CVJ surgery. [...] Georg Thieme Verlag KG Rüdigerstraße 14, 70469 Stuttgart, GermanyArticle in Thieme eJournals: Table of contents  |  Abstract  |  Full text
Source: Journal of Neurological Surgery Part A: Central European Neurosurgery - Category: Neurosurgery Authors: Tags: Original Article Source Type: research