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Updated: Mar 12, 2026

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Role of Diffusion MRI Tractography in Endoscopic Endonasal Skull Base Surgery
Published on: July 5, 2021
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Cranial Nerve Injury in Endoscopic Endonasal Approach to Skull Base Surgery: A Systematic Review
Alexandra E Hunter1, Tanner J Zachem1,2,3, Anthony Ghanem1,4
1Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA.
International Forum of Allergy & Rhinology
|March 11, 2026
Summary
Endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA) surgery for skull base lesions can cause cranial nerve (CN) injuries. This review found 859 CN injuries in 18,546 patients, with limited data on prevention and management.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Otolaryngology
- Skull Base Surgery
Background:
- Endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA) offers improved visualization for skull base lesions.
- Iatrogenic cranial nerve (CN) injuries are an under-reported complication impacting patient quality of life.
Conclusions:
- Standardized reporting, enhanced neuromonitoring, and robust postoperative strategies are needed.
- Further research, including prospective studies and patient-reported outcomes, is crucial for improving EEA safety.
Keywords:
cranial neuropathiesendoscopic endonasal approachintraoperative nerve monitoringskull base surgery
