BACKGROUND The anterolateral approach (ALA) enables to access the craniovertebral junction (CVJ), lower and middle clivus, jugular foramen, and cervical spine from a lateral perspective. It is particularly indicated when dealing with extradural bone tumors. Other rare indications are represented by spondylotic myeloradiculopathy and vascular diseases. METHOD We describe here the steps to safely perform an anterolateral approach along with a brief description of its indications and limits. CONCLUSION ALA represents a valid option to treat cervical spine and CVJ bone tumors such as chordomas. Its knowledge can improve the process of approach selection when dealing with such complex cases.

中文翻译：

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内镜辅助前外侧入路治疗复发性颈脊髓脊索瘤。

背景技术前外侧入路（ALA）能够从侧面观察颅骨交界处（CVJ），下部和中部锁骨，颈椎孔和颈椎。在处理硬膜外骨肿瘤时特别需要指出。其他罕见的适应症包括脊椎脊髓神经根病和血管疾病。方法我们在这里描述安全地进行前外侧入路的步骤，并简要说明其适应症和局限性。结论ALA是治疗颈椎和CVJ骨肿瘤（如脊索瘤）的有效选择。在处理此类复杂案例时，其知识可以改善方法的选择过程。