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3D exoscopic surgery of lateral skull base
Alessia Rubini1, Stefano Di Gioia2, Daniele Marchioni1
1Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Department, University Hospital of Verona, Piazzale Aristide Stefani, 1, 37126, Verona, Italy.
Summary
The 3D exoscope is a feasible alternative to the microscope for lateral skull base surgery, offering comparable outcomes and operative times without increased complications. This advanced 3D exoscopic technique shows promise for future surgical applications.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Otolaryngology
- Surgical Technology
Background:
- Lateral skull base surgery presents unique challenges.
- The traditional operative microscope has been the standard for visualization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility of 3D exoscopic surgery in lateral skull base procedures.
- To compare the 3D exoscope with the operative microscope for this surgical approach.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of 24 patients with lateral skull base pathologies.
- Comparison between 12 patients treated with 3D exoscope and 12 with operative microscope.
- Evaluation of surgical steps, operative time, functional outcomes, and complications.
Main Results:
- No significant difference in operative time between the 3D exoscope (289 min) and microscope (313 min) groups.
- Comparable facial and hearing function outcomes between the two groups.
- No intraoperative complications and only one minor postoperative complication observed.
Conclusions:
- The 3D exoscope is a feasible and effective tool for lateral skull base surgery.
- The 3D exoscopic technique can be used for all open approaches, mirroring microscope capabilities.
- This technology holds significant promise for the future of lateral skull base surgery.
