How I do it: retrosigmoid suprajugular approach to the jugular foramen.

Background: The retrosigmoid suprajugular approach provides a less-aggressive approach for a subset of tumors of the jugular foramen. Method: We described the retrosigmoid suprajugular approach with its advantages, caveats, and indications. A Samii-B2 glossopharyngeal nerve schwannoma is shown to exemplify the procedure.

Conclusion: The retrosigmoid suprajugular approach provides an excellent option for tumors with a variable extension into the cerebellopontine cistern and limited extension into the jugular foramen. It is less destructive than the other approaches and allows a good exposure to the posterior part of the jugular foramen.