Skull-Base Surgery-A Narrative Review on Current Approaches and Future Developments in Surgical Navigation

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Surgical Technology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Surgical navigation integrates preoperative imaging with intraoperative data for enhanced surgical precision.
• It aids in preoperative planning, simulating resections and reconstructions.
• Skull-base surgery presents unique challenges due to complex 3D anatomy and proximity to critical structures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current state and future directions of surgical navigation in skull-base surgery.
• To highlight the advantages and limitations of this technology in the skull base.
• To present the authors' experience and current research trends in the field.

Main Methods:

• This narrative review synthesizes existing literature on surgical navigation in skull-base surgery.
• It analyzes the application of navigation technology in complex anatomical regions.
• The review incorporates the authors' clinical experience and research insights.

Main Results:

• Surgical navigation improves accuracy in accessing complex skull-base regions.
• It enhances intraoperative orientation of tumors relative to critical structures like the orbit, carotid artery, and brain.
• The technology supports tumor resection with adequate margins while preserving normal anatomy.

Conclusions:

• Surgical navigation is a valuable tool in skull-base surgery, improving precision and patient outcomes.
• It offers significant advantages in managing complex tumors near vital structures.
• Continued research and technological advancements will further refine its application in skull-base procedures.