Our Experience in Trans Nasal Endoscopic Repair of Anterior Skull Base Defects Reinforced with Multiple Layers of...

Aims: To determine the best technique to repair anterior skull base defects using various grafts. Materials & Methods: This Ambi-directional cohort study was carried out at a tertiary care hospital from May 2019 to October 2021. A total of 17 patients who underwent Endoscopic Repair of Anterior Skull Base Defects using various grafts were included in the study. Detailed history and clinical evaluation followed by Diagnostic Nasal Endoscopy, Biochemical and Radiological investigations were done for all patients with postoperative follow-up for at least 6 months. Results: Most common site of anterior skull base defect in our study group was the posterior wall of the sphenoid sinus. Various graft materials used in our study were fascia lata, thigh fat, Hadad flap, Septal cartilage, nasal septal bone chip, septal mucosal free flap, surgicel and fibrin glue. The most commonly used sequence of graft materials used is the fat(underlay) - fascia lata - fat(overlay). Various complications that occurred were nasal bleeding, residual CSF leak, localized collection of pus in the Septal region, cerebral oedema and Alar trauma. Conclusions: The success of Anterior skull base defect repair depends on watertight Dural closure with multiple layers of grafts to prevent postoperative CSF leak. Although dependent on the Surgeon's preference, usually the sequence of an underlay fat - fascia lata - overlay fat followed by glue/gel foam/Hadad flap works well. Even after discharging the patient, regular follow-up and evaluation ensure that the graft is in situ and there is no CSF leak or other complication.