The supraorbital approach--a minimally invasive approach to the superior orbit.

Background: We present a minimally invasive approach to the superior orbit via an eyebrow incision with a small osteotomy, minimal orbital rim resection and small frontal craniotomy.

Methods: This approach was used in 20 patients with a well-defined intra-and extraconal lesion superior to the optic nerve, who underwent surgery between 2000 and 2007.

Results: This approach is purely extradural with minimal brain and orbital retraction. The size of the lesion was not a limiting factor. Sensory deficits in the territory of the supraorbital nerve resolved within 7 months on average.

Conclusion: This approach presents a combination of an extra-and transcranial approach, which is indicated in all orbital lesions superior to the optic nerve. The clinical and cosmetic results are excellent.