Endoscopic transoral surgery for craniovertebral junction anomalies. Technical note

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Endoscopic Techniques

Background:

• Craniovertebral junction (CVJ) anomalies present complex anatomical challenges for neurosurgeons.
• The transoral microsurgical approach is the standard for anteriorly located compressive lesions of the cervicomedullary junction (CMJ).
• Minimizing surgical trauma leads to improved patient outcomes, including fewer complications and shorter hospital stays.

Observation:

• This study involved 11 patients with irreducible osseous dislocations due to CVJ abnormalities over a 2-year period.
• Neuroendoscopically controlled transoral excision of bone and soft tissues was employed for anterior CMJ decompression in all cases.
• The endoscopic approach was utilized for transoral access to the lower clivus and atlantoaxial region.

Findings:

• Anterior CMJ decompression was successfully achieved in all 11 patients.
• The neuroendoscopic technique facilitated minimally invasive transoral excision of bone and soft tissues.
• The study discusses the surgical technique and presents the obtained results.

Implications:

• Endoscopic surgery is emerging as a leading minimally invasive neurosurgical treatment modality.
• The transoral endoscopic approach offers advantages for accessing the lower clivus and atlantoaxial region.
• Minimally invasive endoscopic techniques may reduce the need for extensive cranial base surgery and decrease postoperative complications.