Background: Because of the restricted volume of the cisternal space, proper patient positioning on the operating table is of utmost importance during surgery by retrosigmoid approaches. Three positions are commonly used: supine, with the head rotated to the side contralateral to the lesion; the semi-sitting position; and the park bench position. Each position has advantages and disadvantages, and the surgeon should choose the one best suited to the individual patient and the pathology to be treated.
Methods: We describe a modified park bench position that we call the Dormeuse position.
Conclusion: The Dormeuse position guarantees decrease in the posterior fossa pressure and allows optimal neural and vascular manipulation and control of any aspect of the cerebellopontine angle.
Keywords: Cerebellopontine angle; Craniotomy; Positioning; Retrosigmoid; Skull base.