[Indication to translabyrinthine approach to remove of the cerebello-pontine angle tumors--anatomical aspects].

Indication to translabyrinthine approach to removing of the cerebello-pontine angle tumors--anatomical aspects. Translabyrinthine approach was used in surgical procedures performed for stage II, III and IV tumors of the cerebello-pontine angle of various sizes in 15 cases. In order to ensure a correct course of the procedure and successful removal of the tumor, translabyrinthine approach should be carefully planned on the basis of radiological criteria (CT, NMR). Anatomical limitations of the approach are connected with the localization of the sigmoid sinus, the bulb of the internal jugular vein, pneumatization of the mastoid process and the location of the superior petrosal sinus. In approach planning it should be considered whether the bulb of the internal jugular vein is not located high in relation to the internal auditory meatus, what is the meatus diameter (IAC), location of the sigmoid sinus--its shift to the front is a serious limitation for the approach. The pneumatization state of the mastoid process is also important because of the duration of petrosectomy. Taking into consideration the aforementioned conditions allows to plan precisely and perform the approach appropriate for the tumor size.