Application of neuroendoscopy in lateral skull base surgery via transcranial approach

Abstract

Objective To investigate the application of neuroendoscopy and curative effect of lateral skull base surgery via transcranial approach. Methods Clinical data of 142 cases undergoing endoscopic lateral skull base surgeries via transcranial approach from July 2015 to July 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. There were 32 cases of primary hemifacial spasm, 56 cases of primary trigeminal neuralgia, 2 cases of primary glossopharyngeal neuralgia, 15 cases of epidermoid cyst, 14 cases of acoustic neuroma, 3 cases of trigeminal schwannoma, 18 cases of pontocerebellar trigone meningioma, and 2 cases of jugular foramen schwannoma. Among them, 90 cases (32 cases of primary hemifacial spasm, 56 cases of primary trigeminal neuralgia and 2 cases of primary glossopharyngeal neuralgia) underwent endoscopic microvascular decompression (MVD) via transcranial approach, and 52 cases (15 cases of epidermoid cyst, 14 cases of acoustic neuroma, 3 cases of trigeminal schwannoma, 18 cases of pontocerebellar trigone meningioma, and 2 cases of jugular foramen schwannoma) underwent endoscopic removal of lateral skull base tumors via transcranial approach. Results All the operations were performed under endoscopy, including 96 cases (67.61%) operated by single hand (the endoscope was held by a pneumatic arm) and the rest 46 cases (32.39%) operated by both hands. The cure rate of MVD was 87.78% (79/90) and the total removal rate of lateral skull base tumors was 90.38% (47/52). The mean follow-up period was (23.46 ± 8.93) months. There was no death or other serious complications. Conclusions The complex lateral skull base surgery via transcranial approach can be performed by neuroendoscope with pneumatic endoscopic fixed arm. It has the advantages of near and multi-angle observation, clear visual field, full exposure and high recognition of nerve and blood vessels. However, the requirements for endoscopic technology, instruments and assistive equipments are high, and it is necessary to receive relevant trainings and experiences in endoscopic surgery. DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1672-6731.2019.03.008

Keywords

• Endoscopes
• Skull base
• Neurosurgical procedures