Angled Endoscopes Research Articles

Virtual surgical analysis of endoscopic microvascular decompression for hemifacial spasm

ObjectiveEndoscopic microvascular decompression (eMVD) for hemifacial spasm (HFS) clearly demonstrates the root entry zone (REZ) of the facial nerve with minimal invasiveness. The aim of this study was to identify the trajectory of the angled view under eMVD for HFS and to better understand the relevant anatomical landmarks using a virtual straight microscopic view on three-dimensional (3D) fusion images. MethodsEach 3D fusion image including arteries, veins, brainstem, cranial nerves, and skull was created using an image processing workstation. A trajectory of view under a 30° angled endoscope was defined as the angled view trajectory (AVT). To investigate the anatomy along the AVT, 3D fusion images were manually made consistent with the 30° endoscopic view, and a straight microscopic approach to obtain the same view as the endoscopic surgery was analyzed on 3D fusion images. ResultsThe 30° endoscopic view during eMVD visualized the lateral side of the pons, pontomedullary junction, REZ of the facial nerve, and offending arteries. The 30° endoscopic view correlated with 3D fusion images from the straight microscopic view obtained by the posterior petrosal approach after mastoidectomy with incision of the transition between the sigmoid sinus and jugular bulb. ConclusionsThis 3D fusion image analysis revealed the AVT of eMVD for HFS. The present results explain how the angled endoscope can effectively visualize the REZ of the facial nerve without needing extensive skull base resection.

Hybrid Robotics for Endoscopic Transnasal Skull Base Surgery: Single-Centre Case Series.

Only preclinical studies and case reports have described robotic surgery for endoscopic transnasal skull base surgery. To evaluate the role of a novel robotic endoscope holder, developed for transsphenoidal surgery. Patients were prospectively enrolled for 3 mo at the Neurosurgery Unit of Brescia. Endoscope Robot® was used to assist during the sphenoidal phase of the approach, tumor removal, and skull base reconstruction. A Likert scale questionnaire was given to all surgeons after each procedure. Patients who underwent robotic-assisted surgery were matched with nonrobotic ones for pathology and type of procedure. All surgical videos were evaluated during bimanual phases. Twenty-one patients underwent robot-assisted, endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery for different pathologies (16 pituitary adenomas, 3 chordomas, 1 craniopharyngioma, 1 pituitary exploration for Cushing disease) for a total of 23 procedures (1 patient underwent 2 endoscopic revisions of a skull base reconstruction). Subjective advantages reported by surgeons included smoothness of movement, image steadiness, and improvement of maneuvers in narrow spaces and with angled endoscopes; as the main limitation, Endoscope Robot® appeared to be relatively heavy during the initial endoscope positioning. A comparative analysis with a historical matched cohort documented similar clinical outcomes, while endoscope lens cleaning and position readjustments were significantly less frequent in robotic procedures. Although confirmation in larger studies is needed, Endoscope Robot® was a safe and effective tool, especially advantageous in lengthy interventions through deep and narrow corridors.

Endoscopic-assisted resection of vestibular schwannomas in high-riding jugular bulb.

The present surgical video demonstrates safe opening of the internal auditory canal (IAC) during vestibular schwannoma surgery via a retrosigmoid approach in the sitting position. Resection of the intrameatal portion of a tumor is important for progression-free survival. Preoperative thin-sliced CT revealed a high-riding jugular bulb obscuring the trajectory. After dural opening, the IAC was approached anteriorly and superiorly. The posterior margin of IAC drilling was above the Tubingen line. Drilling was performed under continuous jugular compression. The vein was pushed down to augment visibility. An angled endoscope was helpful. IAC can be drilled safely in a high-riding jugular bulb with the technique mentioned in the video.The video can be found here: https://stream.cadmore.media/r10.3171/2021.7.FOCVID2198

Endoscopic Paramaxillary Approach to the Infratemporal Fossa and Pterygomaxillary Space: Computer Modeling Analysis and Clinical Series.

Objective Several different open and endoscopic approaches for the pterygomaxillary space and infratemporal fossa have been described. Limitations to these approaches include restricted exposure of the infratemporal fossa and difficult surgical manipulation. Study Design Consecutive clinical cases utilizing a novel approach to access lesions in the infratemporal fossa and pterygomaxillary space were reviewed. Data was collected on pathology, lesion location, and surgical approach(es) performed. Computer modeling was performed to analyze the full extent of surgical access provided by the paramaxillary approach to the range of target locations. Results Ten consecutive cases met inclusion criteria. Surgical access to the target lesion was achieved in all cases. Computer modeling of the approach derived the anatomical boundaries of the paramaxillary approach. Wide access to the posterior maxilla, and lateral or medial to the mandibular condyle allows for variability in endoscopic angles and access to more medial pterygomaxillary space lesions. The lateral extent is limited proximally only by the extent of cheek/soft tissue retraction and by the zygomatic arch more superiorly. The superior limit of dissection is at the temporal line. Conclusion The endoscopic paramaxillary approach is a transoral minimally disruptive approach to the ITF and PS that provides excellent surgical exposure for resection of lesions involving these areas. Compared with previously described endoscopic approaches, there are no external incisions; tumor manipulation is straightforward without angled endoscopy, and all areas of the infratemporal fossa and pterygomaxillary space can be accessed.

A Feasible, Low-Cost, Capsicum and Tomato Model for Endoscopic Sinus and Skull Base Surgery Training.

To describe and standardize an easily available, viable, low-cost capsicum and Tomato model for endoscopic sinus and Skull Base surgery training. Rhinology fellows performed the following stimulated endoscopic sinus exercises using the capsicum and tomato models at our centre using a Karl Storz angled Endoscope and Medtronic Debrider with various angled blades. Each student dissected 10 specimens before training these procedures on human patients, and the benefit of the capsicum and tomato models training was evaluated. 10 rhinology fellows of comparable academic level participated in the training. All participants agreed that the capsicum and tomato model dissections improved their skills in using powered instruments and endoscopic instruments, 90% agreed that the dissections improved their hand-eye coordination, precision, the manoeuvrability of angled blades and confidence with respect to their further training in human patients. A novel technique of low-cost model using Capsicum and Tomato has been used for training fellows in endoscopic sinus and Skull Base surgery. However, no standardization of this training has been performed to ensure that it is a valuable tool for learning and skill-building. The standardized method described in this study increased the skills and confidence of the fellows before beginning their training on human patients. Moreover, our results demonstrate the feasibility of the model, considering its cost-effectiveness and easy availability. A novel technique of low-cost simulation exercises using capsicum and tomato have been described. Future studies with this model should be conducted to assess whether the resulting increase in skills prevents and reduces medical errors, increases patient safety, reduces training costs, and improves the quality of otolaryngological care.

Transcanal Endoscopic Ear Surgery for Epitympanic Cholesteatoma With Obliteration Using Bioglass.

Transcanal Endoscopic Ear Surgery for Epitympanic Cholesteatoma With Obliteration Using Bioglass.

Simplifying Access to the Lateral Sphenoid Recess: A Modification of the Transpterygoid Approach.

Meningoencephaloceles originating in the lateral recess of the sphenoid sinus can be difficult to access. Historically, the endoscopic transpterygoid approach was advocated, which carries additional morbidity given the dissection of the pterygopalatine fossa (PPF) contents to provide a direct line approach to the defect. Given our increased facility with angled endoscopes and instrumentation, we now approach this region in a less invasive manner. We describe the endoscopic modified transpterygoid approach (MTPA), a quicker approach to the lateral sphenoid recess which preserves the PPF contents through a single nostril corridor. In the MTPA, the face of the sphenoid and anterior junction of the pterygoid plates are removed, allowing for mobilization of the PPF contents with the periosteum intact. Angled instrumentation is then used to resect the meningoencephalocele and repair the skull base defect in the lateral recess. If increased exposure is needed, this can be gained by sacrificing the sphenopalatine artery and even the vidian nerve, although this is rarely required. The MTPA obviates the need for PPF dissection and simplifies access to the lateral sphenoid recess while minimizing postoperative morbidity. This approach should be considered for accessing meningoencephaloceles and other benign lesions in this challenging location.

Mini Caldwell-Luc - How We Do It

Functional endoscopic sinus surgery has become the standard of care for chronic sinus disease. However, even with angled endoscopes it is difficult to visualize the entire maxillary sinus and a failure to do so often leads to incomplete disease clearance. This article describes our variation-the Mini Caldwell Luc (MCL) procedure, which we have found effective in disease clearance with minimal morbidity. The advantage of this procedure lies in the fact that the majority or entire procedure may be performed with a 0-degree endoscope and straight instruments.

Endoscopic endonasal reconstruction of skull base defects in the lateral recess of the sphenoid sinus: evaluation of computed tomograms for planning operations

Determine the influence of the anatomical features and sizes of the lateral pocket with a defect on the choice of surgical access and the quality of the performed plastics. A retrospective analysis of computed tomograms of 38 patients who underwent surgical treatment at the Burdenko National Medical Research Center for Neurosurgery of the Ministry of Health of Russia about defects of the skull base in the area of the lateral pocket of the sphenoid sinus. The patients were divided into three groups depending on the approach used (the 1st group), the recurrence rate (the 2nd group), and the characteristics of intraoperative visualization of the defect (the 3rd group). There were no statistically significant differences in anatomical features in patients who underwent trans-pterygoid and transsphenoidal approaches, as well as in patients of the 2nd group. Patients of the 3rd group (with visualization features) showed statistically significant differences between the distance from the defect to the VR line (p=0.007). In patients with good visualization of the defect using direct optics, this distance was shorter than in patients in whom the defect was visualized with an angled endoscope. No other anatomical differences were noted. The anatomical features of the lateral pocket structure (type of pneumatization, size and volume) did not affect the choice of access to the defect and the frequency of recurrence. When comparing the approaches, it was noted that the trans-pterygoid access, providing direct visualization of defects, minimizes the risk of recurrence in the postoperative period. An objective anatomical indicator for choosing an access to the defects of the lateral pocket can be the distance from the defect to the VR line: at a distance of more than 0.7 cm, it is advisable to perform a trans-pterygoid approach; at a distance of less than 0.7 cm, it is possible to achieve direct visualization of the defect and perform high-quality plastic surgery with a transsphenoidal access.

Endoscopic Transorbital Approach to the Cavernous Sinus Lateral Compartment (Anatomical Cadaver Study).

To determine whether the endoscopic transorbital (ETO) approach could be an alternative and a safer route to access the cavernous sinus (CS) lateral compartment. ETO technique was studied on 3 cadavers and 6 CSes of these cadavers. Endoscopic dissection was visualized with a 0-degree angle endoscope and recorded with fiberoptic cable, light source and camera system and digital video recording system. Superior orbital fissure (SOF), optic canal (OC), anterior ethmoidal artery (AEA) and posterior ethmoidal artery (PEA) foramens were visualized with periorbital dissection. Anterior wall of CS was reached after drilling the optic strut (OS). When the wall was opened, CS lateral and anteroinferior compartments were visualized. Internal carotid artery (ICA) were visualized from proximal ring to the last 2 cm of paraclival carotid artery. Cranial nerves (CNs) within the CS and the course of the interclinoid ligament were revealed. The transorbital endoscopic method is an alternative approach to other techniques for accessing the lateral and anteroinferior compartments of CS. The advantages, disadvantages and limitations of the technique have been determined.

Endoscopic-assisted parieto-occipital interhemispheric precuneal transtentorial approach for microsurgical resection of vermian arteriovenous malformation: operative video and technical nuances.

In this illustrative video, the authors demonstrate resection of a superior vermian arteriovenous malformation (AVM) using the endoscopic-assisted parieto-occipital interhemispheric precuneal transtentorial approach. Lateral positioning allows for gravity-assisted access to the interhemispheric fissure without retractors. The parieto-occipital trajectory is useful in patients who have a steep tentorial angle and avoids manipulation of the occipital lobe and visual cortex. In addition, the authors utilize an angled endoscope, which allows full inspection of the resection bed after AVM removal to visualize areas hidden from the microsurgical view to minimize the chance of residual disease in a deep corridor with multiple visual obstructions.The video can be found here: https://youtu.be/hk9nIIdtqbI

Updates in techniques for improved visualization in sinus surgery.

Adequate visualization during endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) is one of the most critical aspects of performing well tolerated and successful surgery. The topic of visualization encompasses a broad spectrum of preoperative and intraoperative manoeuvres the surgeon can perform that aid in the understanding of the patient's anatomy and in the delivery of efficient surgical care. Preoperative considerations to improve visualization include optimization of haemostasis through management of comorbidities (e.g. hypertension, coagulopathies), medication management (e.g. blood thinners) and systemic versus topical corticosteroids. New technologies allow preoperative visual mapping of surgical plans. Advances in knowledge of intraoperative anaesthesia have encouraged a move toward noninhaled anaesthetics to reduce bleeding. High definition cameras, angled endoscopes, 3D endoscopes and more recently augmented reality, image-guided surgery, and robotic surgery, represent the state of the art for high-quality visualization. Topical interventions, such as epinephrine, tranexamic acid and warm isotonic saline, can help to reduce bleeding and improve the operative field. Surgical manoeuvres, such as polyp debulking, septoplasty, carefully controlled tissue manipulation and a consistent repeatable approach remain fundamental to appropriate intraoperative surgical visualization. This chapter delineates medical, technical and technological means - preoperatively and intraoperatively - to achieve optimized visualization of the surgical field in ESS.

Surgical management of the fourth ventricular tumors using telovelar approach and the role of neuroendoscopy: Post-operative outcome and long-term results in a series of 52 cases

ObjectivesThe telovelar approach is a surgical method performed through natural corridors of the brain to access the fourth ventricle. The aim of this study is to assess the results of this approach as well as the role of neuroendoscopy in surgical management of fourth ventricle tumors. Material and MethodsA retrospective study was designed, and a series of 52 consecutive patients (32 male, 20 female) with fourth ventricle tumor undergoing telovelar approach was undertaken. In 10 patients (19 %) with a tumor invading the rostral fourth ventricle, an adjustable angle endoscope was also used to ensure total resection of the tumor. ResultsComplete resection was obtained in majority of patients (94 %). 30 patients (57 %) required insertion of an external ventricular drain which was discontinued in all patients after 72 h. 2 patients (4 %) underwent permanent ventriculoperitoneal shunt. The postoperative complications included meningitis (8 %), transient facial nerve paralysis (8 %), transient sixth cranial nerve paralysis (6 %) and transient unilateral absence of the gag reflex (4 %). No patient experienced mutism and there was a mortality rate of 2 % (1 case) in current study. ConclusionIn our experience, a high rate of total resection of the fourth ventricle tumors could be achieved with the telovelar approach associated with a low risk of surgical morbidity and mortality. Moreover, the use of an adjustable angle endoscope could be useful in patients with a tumor involving the rostral fourth ventricle to ensure total resection of the tumor and also to minimize the extent of telovelar dissection.

English

BACKGROUND In recent times, due to advancement in sinus endoscopes and sinus surgery instruments and the acquirement of skills, the variety of sinonasal diseases being treated and the indications for transnasal endoscopic approaches have increased dramatically. They include chronic rhinosinusitis and sinonasal polyposis to sinonasal tumours, skull base and orbital pathology. We wanted to study the role and outcome of endoscopic sinus surgery in the management of sinonasal disease. METHODS A cross sectional study was conducted among 200 patients attending the Department of ENT, Govt. Medical College, Kozhikode, over a period 2 years with sinonasal diseases. Demographic details, ENT examination, CT scan Paranasal Sinuses (PNS) and endoscopic examination of the nasal cavity were performed in all patients. Clinical signs were recorded and classified according to their pathologies. All the patients were subjected to functional endoscopic sinus surgery. Operative methods and results were recorded. RESULTS Among the 200 patients, 144 (72 %) were males and 56 (28 %) were female patients in the present study. Among the 200 patients, 126 (63 %) were in the age group of 21 to 50 years. 40 / 200 (20 %) patients belonged to the age group of 0 to 20 Years. 34 / 200 (17 %) patients belonged to the age group of 51 to 70 years. CONCLUSIONS The diseases of the nose and paranasal sinuses ranged from inflammatory aetiology to neoplasms. Use of conventional tools for diagnosis and management of such a variety of diseases had their own limitations and demerits. Whereas endoscopic view of the disease sites was exceptionally clear and well-illuminated, giving an added edge to the ability to inspect the recesses with angled distal endoscopes. Definition of micro anatomical sites was well defined by the CT scan especially around osteo-meatal complex, and its anatomical variants. Functional endoscopic sinus surgery was an excellent and safe procedure. The prognosis in surgically treating sinonasal pathologies with FESS was good in terms of lesser morbidity and minimal chances of recurrence. KEYWORDS Sinusitis, Endoscopic Sinus Surgery, CT Scan PNS, Skull Base Surgery, Sinonasal Tumours

Differential independent impact of the intraoperative use of navigation and angled endoscopes on the surgical outcome of endonasal endoscopy for pituitary tumors: a prospective study.

Despite widespread popularity of navigation and angled endoscopes in endonasal endoscopy, there are hardly few studies on their efficacy with the extent of resection or retreatment. This is probably the firststudy to assess the independent impact of these adjuncts among pituitary tumors. Patients with pituitary tumors undergoing endonasal endoscopy were prospectively studied for their demographics, clinico-radiological features, intraoperative use of navigation, and angled endoscopes, in relation to gross total resection (GTR), near total resection (NTR), endocrine remission, and retreatment. Pertinent statistical analyses were performed. Among a total of 139 patients, navigation and angled endoscopes could be used in 54 and 48 patients, respectively, depending upon their availability rather than chosen as per the case. There was no significant difference in baseline characteristics in relation to their use. The surgeon's perception of immediate benefit was noted among 51.9% while using navigation. The use of angled endoscopes towards the end of resection could help with additional tumor removal in 62.5% of patients. Overall, the use of navigation resulted in a significantly higher GTR (80.8% vs. 59.7%, OR 2.83, p= 0.01), a higher GTR/NTR (86.5% vs. 70.8%, OR 2.65, p= 0.04), and a lower retreatment rate (7.7% vs. 20.8%, OR 3.15, p= 0.05) than the others. In functioning tumors with cavernous sinus invasion, navigation had significantly increased remission rates (69.2% vs. 0%, p= 0.03). The use of angled endoscopes yielded a significantly higher GTR/NTR (91.7% vs. 70.6%, p= 0.04) and a lower retreatment rate (0% vs. 15.7%, p= 0.05) among only non-functioning adenomas. In multivariate analyses, the use of neuronavigation had a significant association with both GTR and retreatment rates (p values 0.005 and 0.02 respectively), independent of other confounding factors. The elective intraoperative use of navigation has a significant independent impact on the extent of resection and retreatment overall. While navigation results in better remission rates among functioning tumors with cavernous sinus invasion, angled endoscopy has a significant association with surgical outcomes in non-functioning tumors.

Anatomical Limits of the Endoscopic Contralateral Transmaxillary Approach to the Petrous Apex and Petroclival Region.

Objectives This study aimed to establish the anatomical landmarks for performing a contralateral transmaxillary approach (CTM) to the petrous apex (PA) and petroclival region (PCR), and to compare CTM with a purely endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA). Design EEA and CTM to the PA and PCR were performed bilaterally in eight human anatomical specimens. Surgical techniques and anatomical landmarks were described, and EEA was compared with CTM with respect to ability to reach the contralateral internal acoustic canal (IAC). Computed tomographic scans of 25 cadaveric heads were analyzed and the "angle" and "reach" of CTM and EEA were measured. Results Entry to the PA via a medial approach was limited by (1) abducens nerve superiorly, (2) internal carotid artery (ICA) laterally, and (3) petroclival synchondrosis inferiorly (Gardner's triangle). With CTM, it was possible to reach the contralateral IAC bilaterally in all specimens dissected, without dissection of the ipsilateral ICAs, pterygopalatine fossae, and Eustachian tubes. Without CTM, reaching the contralateral IAC was possible only if: (1) angled endoscopes and instruments were employed or (2) the pterygopalatine fossa was dissected with mobilization of the ICA and resection of the Eustachian tube. The average "angle" and "reach" advantages for CTM were 25.6-degree greater angle of approach behind the petrous ICA and 1.4-cm more lateral reach. Conclusion The techniques and anatomical landmarks for CTM to the PA and PCR are described. Compared with a purely EEA, the CTM provides significant "angle" and "reach" advantages for the PA and PCR.

Endoscopic transoral approach for resection of retrostyloid parapharyngeal space tumors: Retrospective analysis of 16 patients.

The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility of the endoscopic transoral approach for resection of retrostyloid benign tumors. We retrospectively reviewed 16 patients with retrostyloid parapharyngeal space (PPS) tumors resected via an endoscopic transoral approach. After separation and control of the internal carotid artery (ICA), tumors in the retrostyloid PPS were then removed under the guidance of angled endoscope (45°). All 16 patients with retrostyloid PPS tumors were successfully removed via an endoscopic transoral approach. There were 15 schwannomas and 1 paraganglioma. Two tumors were removed en bloc, and the other 14 tumors were removed by piecemeal. In five patients, the tumor extended into the jugular foramen, and was completely removed via the transoral corridor, without cerebrospinal fluid leak. No ICA injury was encountered in any of the 16 patients. The endoscopic transoral approach is suitable for the resection of retrostyloid PPS tumors and is associated with low morbidity.

Correlation of Radiologic Versus Endoscopic Visualization of the Middle Ear: Implications for Endoscopic Ear Surgery.

To determine the limits of visualization during transcanal endoscopic ear surgery (EES) by correlating the relationship between radiologic and endoscopic anatomy using angled optics. Radiology and endoscopic visualization of tensor fold, protympanum, facial sinus (FS), sinus tympani (ST), subtympanic sinus (STS), hypotympanum, and aditus ad antrum were analyzed using a transcanal approach in 30 human temporal bones specimens with different angled endoscopes (0 degree, 45 degrees, 70 degrees) to check for the full visualization of these regions. High-resolution computed tomography (CT) was performed prior to dissection to classify retrotympanic anatomy. According to previously published descriptions, FS, ST, and STS were classified into types A, B, and C depending on their morphology relative to the mastoid segment of the facial nerve. These radiologic findings were compared to endoscopic visualization of these same structures using a Chi-squared test. Visualization of the posterior wall of three different retrotympanic areas was significantly associated (FS p < 0.01; ST p < 0.01; STS p = 0.02) with the radiologic classification and endoscopic optical angle. Angled endoscopy improved visual access to the other subsites, especially the aditus ad antrum and the tensor fold (>70% with 45 degrees and 70 degrees). Complete visual access to the hidden recesses of the middle ear can be achieved using angled endoscopes (45 degrees and 70 degrees). We observed a statistically significant association of endoscopic visualization to radiologic description of the retrotympanum on CT and the optical angle used. The prediction of the endoscopic exposure of the retrotympanum from the preoperative CT is possible. Even with the use of 70 degrees lens, retrotympanum is not fully visualized on transcanal endoscopy if a type C retrotympanic recesses (posterior and medial to the facial nerve) is present. This represents a technical limit of exclusive transcanal EES.

A handheld flexible manipulator system for frontal sinus surgery

PurposeDraf drainage is the standard treatment procedure for frontal sinus diseases. In this procedure, rigid angled endoscopes and rigid curved instruments are used. However, laterally located pathologies in the frontal sinus cannot be reached with rigid instrumentation. In order to assist surgeons with such complicated cases, we propose a novel handheld flexible manipulator system.MethodsA cross section of 3 mm × 4.6 mm enables transnasal guiding of a flexible endoscope with 1.4 mm diameter and a standard flexible surgical instrument with up to 1.8 mm diameter into the frontal sinus with increased reachability. The developed system consists of an electrical discharge-machined flexure hinge-based nitinol manipulator arm and a purely mechanical handheld control unit. The corresponding control unit enables upward and left–right bending of the manipulator arm, translation, rolling, actuation and also quick exchange of the surgical instrument. In order to verify the fulfillment of performance requirements, tests regarding reachability and payload capacity were conducted.ResultsReachability tests showed that the manipulator arm can be inserted into the frontal sinus and reach its lateral regions following a Draf IIa procedure. The system can exert forces of at least 2 N in the vertical direction and 1 N in the lateral direction which is sufficient for manipulation of frontal sinus pathologies.ConclusionConsidering the fact that the anatomical requirements of the frontal sinus are not addressed satisfactorily in the development of prospective flexible instruments, the proposed system shows great potential in terms of therapeutic use owing to its small cross section and dexterity.

Hybrid antero-lateral transcondylar approach to the clivus: a laboratory investigation and case illustration.

Surgical treatment of lesions involving the ventral craniovertebral junction (CVJ) and the lower clivus, traditionally involved complex lateral or transoral approaches to the skull base. However, mid or upper clivus involvement requires more extensive lateral approaches. Recently, the endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA) has become the standard for upper CVJ lesions and medial clival, and a valuable alternative for those tumors extending in its upper third as well as laterally. However, the EEA is associated with an increased risk of post-operative CSF leakage and infection when the tumor is characterized by an intradural extension. Furthermore, whenever the tumor has significant lateral and/or inferior extension below the odontoid process, the chances for a complete resection decrease. To analyze the extent of exposure of a hybrid microscopic-endoscopic transcondylar antero-lateral approach to the CVJ and clival region, and to verify its effectiveness in terms of mid and upper clival access. Five silicone-injected cadaver heads were used. Following a standard antero-lateral approach, condylectomy and jugular tubercle drilling were performed, after which angled endoscopes were utilized to extend the bone resection to the clivus. A volumetric assessment of the amount of clival removal was carried out. A case of CVJ chordoma operated through this approach is presented. The hybrid antero-lateral transcondylar approach provides adequate exposure of the ventral CVJ, up to the dorsum sellae and the sphenoid sinus, the contralateral petrous apex, and the contralateral paraclival internal carotid artery (ICA). Approximately 60% of the total clival volume can be removed with this approach. The main limitation is the limited visualization of the ipsilateral paraclival ICA and petrous apex. The hybrid antero-lateral transcondylar approach is a valuable surgical option for CVJ tumor extending from C2 to the mid and upper clivus.