The far lateral-combined supra- and infratentorial approach: clinical experience.

Four patients underwent a far lateral-combined craniotomy procedure for extensive tumors of the clivus and craniocervical junction. Their presentation, operative, and clinical course are discussed. All patients had improved at their follow-up examination (mean follow-up, 10.7 months). This approach can now be applied to extensive tumors of the petroclival region and craniocervical junction to decrease morbidity.