CT-Based Intraoperative Navigation for Quick Identification of the Stylomastoid Foramen During Hypoglossal-Facial Nerve Anastomosis

AIM: To present the ability of standard intraoperative neuronavigation to reliably identify the stylomastoid foramen, thus providing a quick and effective recognition of the facial nerve at its exit from the skull base.MATERIAL and METHODS: We describe the technical nuances of this procedure by presenting two surgical cases who underwent hypoglossal-facial nerve anastomosis for complete facial nerve palsy occurring post removal of a giant vestibular schwannoma 6 months earlier.RESULTS: CT-based neuronavigation allowed a quick and reliable identification of the stylomastoid foramen and of the facial nerve at its exit from the skull. The entire procedure lasted for 3 hours. Three months after the anastomosis, the first signs of facial muscle reinnervation were visible.CONCLUSION: The use of neuronavigation during hypoglossal-facial nerve anastomosis is a simple and cost-effective strategy to decrease operative duration and increase surgical effectiveness.