Operative Corridors in Endoscopic Skull Base Tumor Surgery

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Otolaryngology
• Endoscopic Skull Base Surgery

Background:

• Technological advancements have enabled expanded endoscopic capabilities for skull base tumor treatment.
• The endonasal approach provides extensive access to various skull base regions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review modular extended endoscopic endonasal approaches for skull base tumors.
• To highlight anatomical considerations and operative techniques.

Main Methods:

• Review of literature on extended endoscopic endonasal approaches.
• Description of anatomical landmarks and surgical corridors.
• Inclusion of illustrative case examples.

Main Results:

• The endonasal approach allows access from the frontal sinus to the posterior cranial fossa.
• Modular extensions facilitate navigation of complex skull base anatomy.
• The approach is safe for pathologies in multiple planes (sagittal, coronal, posterior).

Conclusions:

• Extended endoscopic endonasal approaches are effective for skull base tumor management.
• Understanding anatomy and employing modular techniques are crucial for surgical success.
• This review provides practical guidance for surgeons utilizing these advanced techniques.