Reconstruction of central skull base defects after the removal of chiasmosellar tumors

Abstract

The study objective is to describe currently available and optimal methods of central skull base reconstruction.Material and methods. This article describes a 10-year experience of endoscopic surgery in reconstructing the defects after the removal of chiasmosellar tumors.Results. We developed a strategy for assessing the risks for postoperative liquorrhea and choosing an optimal surgical technique. This strategy allows maintaining the incidence of postoperative liquorrhea of 4 %.Conclusion. Autografts are the most widely used material for reconstructing skull base defects after the removal of chiasmosellar tumors. The multilayer reconstruction is more preferable due to the high risk of postoperative liquorrhea.