Minimally invasive neurosurgery by means of ultrathin endoscopes

The term "minimally invasive neurosurgery" (MIN) is defined and the present indications for MIN are described. They include endoscopic stereotactic interventions, endoscopic evacuations of chronic subdural haematomas and intracerebral mass-haemorrhages, endoscopic spinal and ventriculoscopic procedures. The advantages compared to conventional diagnostic and therapeutic neurosurgical approaches consist of less operative risk and reduced tissue-traumatization. Endoscopy makes interventions under (real-time) conditions possible. The operative stress for the patient is minimized.