A simple and versatile tissue adhesive applicator for endonasal endoscopic skull base surgery

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Otolaryngology
• Skull Base Surgery

Background:

• Dural defect repair after endonasal endoscopic cranial base surgery presents significant challenges.
• Current reconstructive techniques often employ tissue adhesives, but applicator limitations hinder precise delivery.
• Imprecise application of sealants can lead to complications and suboptimal outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a modified technique for applying tissue adhesives during endonasal skull base surgery.
• To introduce straight and curved suction tips as novel, versatile applicators for rigid tissue adhesives.
• To address the challenge of imprecise sealant application in endoscopic cranial base procedures.

Main Methods:

• Modification of standard straight and curved suction tips for use as applicators.
• Application of tissue adhesives using the modified suction tips during endonasal endoscopic skull base surgery.
• Evaluation of the ease of use, precision, and versatility of the modified applicators.

Main Results:

• Modified suction tips provide a simple and versatile method for precise tissue adhesive application.
• The technique allows for controlled delivery of sealants, overcoming limitations of existing applicators.
• Successful use of modified suction tips in endonasal skull base surgery was demonstrated.

Conclusions:

• Modified suction tips represent an effective and accessible tool for dural defect repair in endonasal skull base surgery.
• This technique enhances the precision and control of tissue adhesive application.
• The described method offers a practical solution to a common challenge in endoscopic cranial base surgery.