[The anatomical research progress of extended endoscopic endonasal approach to the clivus]

The clival region refers to the skull base between dorsum sellae and anterior border of foramen magnum. It is located in central area of skull base and is in close proximity to pons, medulla oblongata, basilar artery and other crucial intracranial structures. Although there are various microsurgical approaches using craniotomy to reach this region, there are still a lot of difficulty in exposure of clivus. With the increasing development in extended endoscopic endonasal approach, a new route to clivus, as well as meticulous endoscopic anatomy studies is emerging. This article reviewed related researches progress of the detailed anatomical studies from endoscopic perspective.