Intraoperative hybrid technique for excision of temporal bone paraganglioma: A case report

Abstract

BackgroundTemporal bone paragangliomas are vascularized neoplasms. Although preoperative angioembolization serves as a valuable approach to reduce intraoperative blood loss, it comes with an elevated risk of cranial neuropathies, offers no assurance of complete hemostasis, and precludes real‐time adjustments during surgery.MethodsA 74‐year‐old patient presented with recurrent episodes of ear bleeding. On examination, a vascular lesion obstructed her external auditory canal. It had the clinical and radiological characteristics of a paraganglioma. Angiography revealed that it had three feeding vessels.ResultsThe patient was successfully scheduled for hybrid, intraoperative angiography and temporary balloon occlusion of the feeding vessels supplying the lesion instead of preoperative angioembolization.ConclusionsUtilizing hybrid intraoperative angiography with temporary balloon occlusion during the surgical removal of temporal bone paragangliomas represents an innovative technique that reduces the risk of permanent cranial neuropathies while providing the capacity for real‐time adjustments and improved hemostasis.