Tumors involving the base of the skull: diagnostic and therapeutic approaches

Abstract

PROPOSE OF REVIEW: Surgical approaches of skull base tumors are complicated and invasive. We review all new therapeutic approaches that reduce the invasiveness of the surgery. The development of minimal invasive surgery has completely changed the management of this kind of tumor and also the importance of the quality of life of the patient after surgery. Endoscopy and robotics represent the future of the surgery and therefore must increase resection and reduce complication. We review the articles in which new approaches were described and also the different steps of the procedure. New technologies are also reviewed. The second part is focused on stereotactic radiosurgery, and we review the principle of stereotactic radiosurgery and the results of large series with a long follow-up of tumor involving the skull base. The knowledge of the new technology and also the result of stereotactic radiosurgery must help the physician in the choice of the treatment of skull base lesions.