Important Points for Patient Positioning and Head Fixation in Cerebral Aneurysm Surgery

Abstract

Patient positioning and head fixation are two of the most important aspects of cerebral aneurysm surgery. These procedures require an accurate understanding of the anatomy of the scalp and skull and of the process for approaching aneurysms. We describe the basics of this procedure in frontotemporal craniotomy, which is most frequently used in cerebral aneurysm surgery, with a focus on head fixation using the MAYFIELD three-pin skull clamp(Integra LifeSciences). The insertion sites of the head pins should be avoided in areas with thin bone, such as the frontal sinus and temporal squama, and just above the arteries of the scalp and venous sinuses. The position of the head should be determined based on three factors: rotation, vertex up or down, and tilt. The head should be elevated to reduce intracranial pressure, and cervical hyperflexion should be avoided to prevent increased venous pressure.