Evaluation of lower cranial nerve deficits

Patients with cranial base tumors often present with cranial neuropathies or develop cranial deficits as a consequence of skull base surgery. Deficits involving cranial nerves IX, X, XI, and XII can lead to significant morbidity for patients. A standard evaluation of a patient with a suspected skull base lesion or a postsurgical patient would consist of a complete history and physical examination, including a bedside examination and videofluoroscopy. Other modalities, including fiberoptic endoscopic examination of swallowing safety, ultrasound, and manofluorography, are used less frequently.