Comparative anatomical study on the role of zygomatic osteotomy in the extradural subtemporal approach to the clival region, when less is more.

Purpose A great concern in performing the extradural subtemporal approach (ESTA) is the evaluation of the actual advantage provided by zygomatic osteotomy (ZO). Complications related to zygomatic dissection have been widely reported in the literature, making it of paramount importance to balance the actual need to perform it, against the risk of maneuver-related morbidity. Authors comparatively analyze the putative advantage provided by ZO in the ESTA in terms of anatomic exposure and surgical operability. Technical limits and potentials are critically revised and discussed.