Giant planum sphenoidale meningioma: rationale for Dolenc’s step in the pterional approach

Large meningiomas of the midline anterior skull base do not respect anatomical boundaries. Therefore, a giant planum sphenoidale meningioma has the unique risk of simultaneously endangering the olfactory and visual functions. A pterional approach to such cases has several advantages, and the Dolenc's modification allows a complete extradural anterior clinoidectomy, early release of compressed optic nerve, and exposure of basal portions of the internal carotid artery with a possible operative corridor expansion. This enhances tumor resection ergonomics with a more basal angle of attack while visualizing the anterior-to-posterior expanse of the entire anterior skull base. The video can be found here: https://stream.cadmore.media/r10.3171/2025.10.FOCVID25172.