Interhemispheric transcallosal approach

The interhemispheric transcallosal approach provides access to the lateral ventricle as well as the third ventricle ¹.

Approach

In the interhemispheric transcallosal approach, as shown in the figure below, the ipsilateral hemisphere is retracted laterally, and the approach proceeds alongside the falx cerebri toward the corpus callosum, where access to the lateral ventricle is created through a small callosotomy.

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Complications

During the transcallosal approach, particular attention should be paid to superficial bridging veins, as their congestion can cause cerebral edema and hemorrhage. A study by Desai et al. found this to occur in approximately 6% of patients².

Indication

An interhemispheric transcallosal approach may be used, for example, for surgery of colloid cysts or craniopharyngiomas.

References