Suboccipital retrosigmoid approach for removal of vestibular schwannomas: facial nerve function and hearing preservation

In this report, we discuss the pertinent bony, arachnoid, and neurovascular anatomy of vestibular schwannomas that has an impact on the surgical technique for removal of these tumors, with the goal of facial nerve and hearing preservation. The surgical technique is described in detail starting with anesthesia, positioning, and neurophysiological monitoring and continuing with the exposure, technical nuances of tumor removal, hemostasis, and closure. Positive prognostic factors for hearing preservation are also highlighted.