Endonasal Approach Research Articles

Impact of the Lumbar Catheter on the Incidence of Postsurgical Meningitis in the Endoscopic Endonasal Approach

Abstract Objectives Endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA) procedures are inherently contaminated due to direct access through the nasopharyngeal mucosa. The reported rate of postoperative meningitis in EEA procedures is between 0.7 and 10%. Lumbar catheters are used in EEA surgeries to prevent cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) fistulae, but their use is associated with increased infection rates. This study investigated whether there is a difference in rates of postoperative meningitis based on lumbar catheter (LC) utilization. Methods We performed a retrospective review of consecutive patients who underwent EEA surgeries between January 2016 and March 2023 at a single institution (Fundación para la Lucha contra las Enfermedades Neurológicas de la Infancia). Main Outcome Incidence of meningitis following EEA surgery with lumbar catheter. Results Seventy-two patients were enrolled, median age was 44 years, and 53% were female. The most frequent surgery performed was craniopharyngioma 46% (26 patients). A LC was used in 28 patients. Meningitis was diagnosed in 11 of 72 patients (15.2%), being higher in the LC group (10 patients). The odds ratio for the development of meningitis in the presence of an LC was 23.38 (95% confidence interval, 2.77–123.78; p < 0.004). There was no statistical difference in the reported incidence of meningitis when CSF leak was present. Conclusions This study demonstrates an extremely high incidence of meningitis (36%) following EEA procedures when an LC is used. The incidence of meningitis was not significantly associated with CSF leak in our cohort.

Morphometric Analysis of the Sella Turcica on Cone-Beam Computed Tomography Images.

Sella turcica is an important anatomic formation that contains the pituitary gland and is in a close neighborhood with many vital structures. It is important to know the morphometry of the sella turcica, as it is a transition point during surgical interventions such as the endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal approach to the region. The findings obtained are thought to be useful in the examination of sella turcica and surrounding structures and will contribute to the literature by knowing the morphometry of the region for the surgical method. In this study, cone-beam computed tomography images of 400 individuals, 200 females and 200 males, aged between 18 and 65 years, who did not have craniofacial pathology, who applied to Gaziantep University, Faculty of Dentistry between 2015 and 2020 for any reason, were evaluated retrospectively. In the sagittal section, 8 parameters were examined, 6 of which were transverse. The length () of the sella turcica in the sagittal plane is 10.19±1.77mm, the diameter of the sella turcica is 11.6±1.69mm, the anterior height of the sella turcica is 7.88±1.56mm, the median height of the sella turcica 8.18±1.42mm, posterior height of sella turcica 6.98±1.31mm, width of sella turcica 11.10±1.6mm. The distance between anterior clinoid processes in the transverse plane was 24.93±2.57mm, and the distance between posterior clinoid processes was 14.92±2.46mm. It was determined that there was an increase in many parameters with age, and length of the sella turcica and anterior clinoid processes were statistically significantly higher in males.

Combined Endoscopic Endonasal Transclival and Contralateral Transmaxillary Approach to the Petrous Apex and the Petroclival Synchondrosis: Working "Around the Corner" of the Internal Carotid Artery-Quantitative Anatomical Study and Clinical Applications.

The endoscopic contralateral transmaxillary (CTM) approach has been proposed as a potential route to widen the corridor posterolateral to the internal carotid artery (ICA). In this study, we first refined the surgical technique of a combined multiportal endoscopic endonasal transclival (EETC) and CTM approach to the petrous apex (PA) and petroclival synchondrosis (PCS) in the dissection laboratory, and then validated its applications in a preliminary surgical series. The combined EETC and CTM approach was performed on three cadaver specimens based on four surgical steps: (1) the nasal, (2) the clival, (3) the maxillary and (4) the petrosal phases. The CTM provided a "head-on trajectory" to the PA and PCS and a short distance to the surgical field considerably furthering surgical maneuverability. The best operative set-up was achieved by introducing angled optics via the endonasal route and operative instruments via the transmaxillary corridor exploiting the advantages of a non-coaxial multiportal surgery. Clinical applications of the combined EETC and CTM approach were reported in three cases, a clival chordoma and two giant pituitary adenomas. The present translational study explores the safety and feasibility of a combined multiportal EETC and CTM approach to access the petroclival region though different corridors.

The learning curve in endoscopic transsphenoidal skull-base surgery: a systematic review

BackgroundThe endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal approach (EETA) has revolutionized skull-base surgery; however, it is associated with a steep learning curve (LC), necessitating additional attention from surgeons to ensure patient safety and surgical efficacy. The current literature is constrained by the small sample sizes of studies and their observational nature. This systematic review aims to evaluate the literature and identify strengths and weaknesses related to the assessment of EETA-LC.MethodsA systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. PubMed and Google Scholar were searched for clinical studies on EETA-LC using detailed search strategies, including pertinent keywords and Medical Subject Headings. The selection criteria included studies comparing the outcomes of skull-base surgeries involving pure EETA in the early and late stages of surgeons’ experience, studies that assessed the learning curve of at least one surgical parameter, and articles published in English.ResultsThe systematic review identified 34 studies encompassing 5,648 patients published between 2002 and 2022, focusing on the EETA learning curve. Most studies were retrospective cohort designs (88%). Various patient assortment methods were noted, including group-based and case-based analyses. Statistical analyses included descriptive and comparative methods, along with regression analyses and curve modeling techniques. Pituitary adenoma (PA) being the most studied pathology (82%). Among the evaluated variables, improvements in outcomes across variables like EC, OT, postoperative CSF leak, and GTR. Overcoming the initial EETA learning curve was associated with sustained outcome improvements, with a median estimated case requirement of 32, ranging from 9 to 120 cases. These findings underscore the complexity of EETA-LC assessment and the importance of sustained outcome improvement as a marker of proficiency.ConclusionsThe review highlights the complexity of assessing the learning curve in EETA and underscores the need for standardized reporting and prospective studies to enhance the reliability of findings and guide clinical practice effectively.

Endoscopic Endonasal Approach for Residual and Recurrent Craniopharyngioma after Transcranial Approach: A Multi-institutional Experience

Abstract Objectives While the endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA) has become a well-established surgery for resection of craniopharyngiomas (CP), the utility of this procedure following subtotal resection from open transcranial approach (TCA) surgery has yet to be explored. Here we present a multi-institutional case series of patients who underwent EEA for treatment of recurrent CP originally treated by TCA, demonstrating the viability of this approach as salvage surgery. Design Retrospective cohort. Setting Loyola University Medical Center and University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Participants Patients who underwent EEA for recurrent CP following an initial TCA between 2003 and 2018. Main Outcome Measures Gross total resection (GTR) rate, surgical complications, visual outcomes, and endocrine outcomes Results Patients who underwent EEA for recurrent CP following a prior TCA had a GTR rate of 77%. EEA reoperation was not associated with worsening of visual outcomes as compared with the primary TCA (0% visual worsening after EEA reoperation vs. 40% after primary TCA, p = 0.055). While primary TCA resulted in worsening endocrinopathies in 100% of patients (including seven patients with permanent diabetes insipidus), subsequent EEA for re-resection of CP resulted in stable (30.8%) or improved (69.2%) endocrine function in all patients (p < 0.001). Conclusions EEA achieves reasonable GTR rates and is an effective, safe surgical option for recurrent CP postinitial TCA. This approach demonstrated stable or improved visual and endocrinologic outcomes in all patients within our two-institution series. Thus, EEA should be considered as an efficacious form of retreatment in cases of progressive and recurrent CP.

A comparison of endoscopic endonasal versus open approaches for skull base chordoma: a comprehensive National Cancer Database analysis.

The authors of this study aimed to investigate independent prognostic factors of survival with a particular focus on comparing the safety and efficacy of endoscopic endonasal versus open approaches in the surgical management of skull base chordoma. A retrospective National Cancer Database review of skull base chordoma patients was performed to capture resection cases from 2010 to 2020, evaluating overall survival (OS), early postoperative mortality, readmission rates, and hospital length of stay (LOS) between surgical approaches and the independent prognostication of death utilizing Cox multivariate regression analysis. Among the 736 patients included in the cohort, 456 patients (62.0%) and 280 patients (38.0%) underwent endoscopic endonasal and open resection, respectively. These values represent a rate of change over the study period of +4.1 versus -0.14 cases per year, respectively. Gross-total resection was achieved in 32.5% of cases. A positive margin status was found in 51.8% of cases. There was no association between extent of resection and surgical approach (p = 0.257). There was no difference in OS (p = 0.562), 30- and 90-day mortality (p = 0.209 and 0.126, respectively), and 30-day readmission (p = 0.438) between the two surgical groups. The mean LOS was reduced by 2.1 days in the endoscopic cohort (p = 0.013) compared with the open approach cohort. Finally, multivariate analysis revealed a tumor size ≥ 4 cm (HR 4.03, p = 0.005) and public insurance (HR 2.76, p = 0.004) as negative predictors of survival and treatment at an academic center (HR 0.36, p = 0.043) as a positive prognosticator of survival. The endoscopic endonasal approach has been increasingly utilized over time and touts noninferiority with respect to safety and efficacy with a marked improvement in LOS, which carries substantial implications for both healthcare costs and enhanced patient recovery. Future prospective studies are necessary to further delineate trends and surgical outcomes for skull base chordoma.

Management of growth hormone-secreting pituitary adenomas causing acromegaly: a practical review of surgical and multimodal management strategies for neurosurgeons.

This review aimed to highlight the history, diagnostic criteria, preoperative prognostic factors, surgical management, and multimodal adjuvant therapies recommended to provide a comprehensive and multifaceted understanding of and clinical approach to treating growth hormone-secreting pituitary adenomas (GHPAs) in patients with acromegaly. The authors collated and reviewed published studies, many written by skull base neurosurgeons, endocrinologists, and radiation oncologists with expertise in pituitary adenoma management, to produce a practical and contemporary update pertaining to the optimal management of acromegaly for neurosurgeons. Acromegaly is a debilitating disease for which surgery can be curative in more than two-thirds of patients. Recent rates of hormonal remission by the authors' group and others following the resection of GHPAs are on the order of 70%-80%, and these increase to more than 85% with the addition of medical therapy in a minority of patients who do not achieve remission with surgery alone. Most tumors are accessible via a direct endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal approach, which can be augmented with a variety of extended approaches to gain access to suprasellar, clival, and parasellar compartments as needed. Preoperative growth hormone levels, cavernous sinus invasion, and pituitary adenoma consistency are important factors in determining the extent of resection. In most patients with residual or recurrent disease, medical therapy (e.g., somatostatin analogs and dopamine agonists) can be used to help achieve hormonal remission. Repeat surgery can be safely performed in most cases if needed, whereas stereotactic radiosurgery is usually reserved for medically resistant tumors in surgically inaccessible compartments. The neurosurgeon has a primary and often definitive role in the management of acromegaly. The involvement of an integrated and multidisciplinary team consisting of experts from neurosurgery, otolaryngology, endocrinology, and radiation oncology optimizes the chances for a biochemical cure, even in large and aggressive GHPAs.

A modern approach to olfactory groove meningiomas.

Management of olfactory groove meningiomas (OGMs) has changed significantly with the advances in extended endoscopic endonasal approaches (EEAs), which is an excellent approach for patients with anosmia since it allows early devascularization and minimizes retraction on the frontal lobes. Craniotomy is best suited for preservation of olfaction. However, not infrequently, a tumor presents after extending outside the reach of an EEA and a solely transcranial approach would require manipulation and retraction of the frontal lobes. These OGMs may best be treated by a staged EEA-craniotomy approach. In this study the authors' goal was to present their case series of patients with OGMs treated with their surgical approach algorithm. The authors conducted an IRB-approved, nonrandomized historic cohort including all consecutive cases of OGMs treated surgically between 2010 and 2020. Patient demographic information, presenting symptoms, operative details, and complications data were collected. Preoperative and postoperative tumor and T2/FLAIR intensity volumes were calculated using Visage Imaging software. Thirty-one patients with OGMs were treated (14 craniotomy only, 11 EEA only, and 6 staged). There was a significant difference in the distribution of patients presenting with anosmia and visual disturbance by approach. Tumor size was significantly correlated with preoperative vasogenic edema. Gross-total resection was achieved in 90% of cases, with near-total resection occurring twice with EEA and once with a staged approach. T2/FLAIR hyperintensity completely resolved in 90% of cases and rates did not differ by approach. Complication rates were not significantly different by approach and included 4 CSF leaks (p = 0.68). A staged approach for the management of large OGMs with associated anosmia and significant lateral extension is a safe and effective option for surgical management. Through utilization of the described algorithm, the authors achieved a high rate of GTR, and this strategy may be considered for large OGMs.

The burden of skull base chordomas: insights from a meta-analysis of observational studies.

The aim of this study was to provide a quantitative synthesis of the survival outcomes for patients with skull base chordomas, focusing on the role of 1) the extent of resection (gross-total [GTR] vs non-GTR), 2) the type of surgery (primary vs revision), 3) tumor histology, and 4) the different use of adjuvant therapies (proton beam radiotherapy [PBRT], photon radiotherapy [RT], or none). A systematic review with a meta-analysis was conducted following the 2020 PRISMA guidelines. Observational studies describing adult and pediatric patient cohorts harboring skull base chordomas were included. The primary outcome measures were represented by the 5-year overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) rates. The main intervention effects were represented by the extent of resection (GTR vs non-GTR), type of surgical excision (primary vs revision surgeries), tumor histology, and the different use of adjuvant therapies (PBRT, RT, or none). The pooled estimates were calculated using random forest models. The risk of bias was evaluated using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist for case series. Six hundred forty-four studies were identified through a database and register search. After study selection, 51 studies and 3871 patients were included in the meta-analysis. The overall 5-year OS rate was 73%, which increased to 84% among patients undergoing GTR. The overall 5-year PFS rate was 52%, increasing to 74% for patients receiving GTR. The 5-year OS and PFS rates for patients undergoing PBRT were 86% and 71%, compared with 71% and 54% for patients receiving RT, and 55% and 25% when no adjuvant treatments were used. Patients undergoing their first surgery had 2.13-fold greater chances of being disease-free and 1.4-fold greater chances of being alive at 5 years follow-up compared with patients who received a revision surgery. Patients harboring chondroid chordomas had 1.13- and 1.9-fold greater chances of being alive at 5 years compared with patients with conventional and de-differentiated chordomas, respectively. The overall risk of bias was low in the included studies. The results of this comprehensive meta-analysis highlight the tremendous impact of GTR and adjuvant PBRT on improving OS and PFS of patients harboring skull base chordomas, with better survival rates demonstrated for patients with chondroid tumors. Even in experienced hands, the rate of surgical morbidity remains high. Proper management in high-volume centers is mandatory to reach the expected resection goal at the first surgical attempt and to reduce surgical morbidity. The introduction of the endoscopic endonasal approach was related to improved surgical and functional outcomes.

Anatomical determinants of occipitocervical fusion in skull base chordoma resection: a systematic review of the literature with illustrative cases.

Skull base chordomas are rare, locally osseo-destructive lesions that present unique surgical challenges due to their involvement of critical neurovascular and bony structures at the craniovertebral junction (CVJ). Radical cytoreductive surgery improves survival but also carries significant morbidity, including the potential for occipitocervical (OC) destabilization requiring instrumented fusion. The published experience on OC fusion after CVJ chordoma resection is limited, and the anatomical predictors of OC instability in this context remain unclear. PubMed and Embase were systematically searched according to the PRISMA guidelines for studies describing skull base chordoma resection and OC fusion. The search strategy was predefined in the authors' PROSPERO protocol (CRD42024496158). The systematic review identified 11 surgical case series describing 209 skull base chordoma patients and 116 (55.5%) who underwent OC instrumented fusion. Most patients underwent lateral approaches (n = 82) for chordoma resection, followed by midline (n = 48) and combined (n = 6) approaches. OC fusion was most often performed as a second-stage procedure (n = 53), followed by single-stage resection and fusion (n = 38). The degree of occipital condyle resection associated with OC fusion was described in 9 studies: total unilateral condylectomy reliably predicted OC fusion regardless of surgical approach. After lateral transcranial approaches, 4 studies cited at least 50%-70% unilateral condylectomy as necessitating OC fusion. After midline approaches-most frequently the endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA)-at least 75% unilateral condylectomy (or 50% bilateral condylectomy) led to OC fusion. Additionally, resection of the medial atlantoaxial joint elements (the C1 anterior arch and tip of the dens), usually via EEA, reliably necessitated OC fusion. Two illustrative cases are subsequently presented, further exemplifying how the extent of CVJ bony elements removed via EEA to achieve complete chordoma resection predicts the need for OC fusion. Unilateral total condylectomy, 50% bilateral condylectomy, and resection of the medial atlantoaxial joint elements were the most frequently described independent predictors of OC fusion in skull base chordoma resection. Additionally, consistent with the occipital condyle harboring a significantly thicker joint capsule at its posterolateral aspect, an anterior midline approach seems to tolerate a greater degree of condylar resection (75%) than a lateral transcranial approach (50%-70%) prior to generating OC instability.

Efficacy of intraoperative visual evoked potential amplitude reduction in predicting visual outcome after extended endoscopic endonasal resection of craniopharyngiomas.

Postoperative visual outcome is a major concern of neurosurgeons for patients with craniopharyngiomas. The current study aimed to investigate the value of visual evoked potential (VEP) amplitude reduction (N75-P100 and P100-N145) for predicting postoperative visual dysfunction (POVD) and refining current warning criteria for VEP monitoring. Data from 96 patients who underwent the extended endoscopic endonasal approach for craniopharyngiomas between October 2020 and November 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. VEP amplitude reduction ratios were calculated and compared between patients with POVD and those without. Subsequently, the critical threshold values of VEP amplitude reduction ratios for predicting POVD were obtained through receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Finally, multivariate binary logistic regression analysis was applied to evaluate the effect of potential factors on the probability of experiencing POVD. Both N75-P100 and P100-N145 amplitude reduction ratios were significantly higher in patients with POVD (p < 0.001 for both). The threshold value of the N75-P100 amplitude reduction ratio for predicting POVD was 51.76% with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.816 (p < 0.001), while the threshold value of the P100-N145 amplitude reduction ratio was 38.80% with an AUC of 0.738 (p < 0.001). Both N75-P100 and P100-N145 amplitude reduction ratios were identified as independent predictors for POVD via multivariate analysis (p < 0.001 and p = 0.018, respectively). Both N75-P100 and P100-N145 amplitude reduction ratios showed great potential to be indicators for POVD in patients with craniopharyngiomas. Regarding warning criteria for VEP monitoring, the authors recommend that both N75-P100 and P100-N145 amplitude reduction should be considered, with early warning criteria of a 50% reduction for N75-P100 amplitude and/or a 40% reduction for P100-N145 amplitude.

Long-term outcome of primary clival chordomas: a single-center retrospective study with an emphasis on the timing of recurrences based on the primary treatment.

This study aimed to provide data on extended outcomes in primary clival chordomas, focusing on progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). A retrospective single-center analysis was conducted on patients with clival chordoma treated between 1987 and 2022 using surgery, stereotactic radiosurgery, or proton radiation therapy (PRT). The study included 100 patients (median age 44 years, 51% male). Surgery was performed using the endoscopic endonasal approach in 71 patients (71%). Gross-total resection (GTR) or near-total resection (NTR) was attained in 39 patients (39%). Postoperatively, new cranial nerve deficits occurred in 7%, CSF leak in 4%, and meningitis in none of the patients. Radiation therapy was performed in 79 patients (79%), with PRT in 50 patients (50%) as the primary treatment. During the median follow-up period of 73 (interquartile range [IQR] 38-132) months, 41 recurrences (41%) and 31 deaths (31%) were confirmed. Patients with GTR/NTR had a median PFS of 41 (IQR 24-70) months. Patients with subtotal resection or biopsy had a median PFS of 38 (IQR 16-97) months. The median PFS of patients who received radiation therapy was 43 (IQR 26-86) months, while that of patients who did not receive radiation therapy was 18 (IQR 5-62) months. The Kaplan-Meier method showed that patients with GTR/NTR (p = 0.007) and those who received radiation therapy (p < 0.001) had longer PFS than their counterparts. The PFS rates following primary treatment at 5, 10, 15, and 20 years were 51%, 25%, 17%, and 7%, respectively. The OS rates at the same intervals were 84%, 60%, 42%, and 34%, respectively. Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that age < 44 years (p = 0.02), greater extent of resection (EOR; p = 0.03), and radiation therapy (p < 0.001) were associated with lower recurrence rates. Another multivariate analysis showed that age < 44 years (p = 0.01), greater EOR (p = 0.04), and freedom from recurrence (p = 0.02) were associated with lower mortality rates. Regarding pathology data, brachyury was positive in 98%, pan-cytokeratin in 93%, epithelial membrane antigen in 85%, and S100 in 74%. No immunohistochemical markers were associated with recurrence. In this study, younger age, maximal safe resection, and radiation therapy were important factors for longer PFS in patients with primary clival chordomas. Preventing recurrences played a crucial role in achieving longer OS.

Surgical Approaches to Resection of Olfactory Groove Meningiomas: Comparative Meta-analysis of the Endoscopic Endonasal versus Transcranial and Unilateral versus Bilateral Approaches

Abstract Introduction Here we systematically review the extant literature to highlight the advantages of bilateral versus unilateral approaches and endoscopic endonasal (midline) approaches versus transcranial approaches for olfactory groove meningiomas, focusing on complications, extent of resection, and local recurrence rates. Methods Three databases were queried to identify all primary prospective trials and retrospective series comparing outcomes following endoscopic endonasal versus transcranial approaches and unilateral versus bilateral craniotomy for surgical resection of olfactory groove meningiomas. All articles were screened by two independent authors and selected for formal analysis according to predefined inclusion/exclusion criteria. Results Seven studies comprising 288 total patients (mean age 55.0 ± 24.6 years) met criteria for inclusion. In the three comparing the endoscopic endonasal (n = 21) versus transcranial (n = 32) approaches, there was no significant difference between the two with respect to gross total resection (p = 0.34) or rates of Simpson Grade 1 resection (p = 0.69). EEA demonstrated higher rates of overall complications (p &lt; 0.01) including postoperative infection (p = 0.03). In the four studies comparing bilateral (n = 117) versus unilateral approaches (n = 118), overall complication rates (p &lt; 0.01) and disease recurrence (p = 0.01) were higher with bilateral approaches. All surgery-related mortalities also occurred in the bilateral cohort (n = 7, 7.14%). Gross total resection (p = 0.63) and Simpson grade (p = 0.48) were comparable between approaches. Olfaction preservation was superior for unilateral approaches (p &lt; 0.01). Conclusions Though the literature is limited, current evidence suggests that the endoscopic endonasal approach may be favorable over conventional craniotomy for select olfactory groove meningioma patients. Where craniotomy is used, unilateral approaches appear to reduce complications and the risk of olfaction loss.

Single-Stage Endoscopic Repair of Pediatric Basal Encephalocele: A Comprehensive Multimedia Case Report.

Basal encephaloceles are the result of a concomitant cranial and dural defect that allows for inferior displacement of cerebral tissue, meninges, and cerebrospinal fluid into the paranasal sinuses and outside the cranial vault. This work illustrates a step-by-step surgical approach of a successful single-stage, endoscopic repair of a congenital basal encephalocele in a 10-year-old child, using a free mucosal middle turbinate graft that provided effective results without utilization of traditional open reconstructive techniques or vascularized flaps. A previously healthy 10-year-old male with a history of unilateral clear rhinorrhea was admitted as an inpatient because of an acute episode of nausea, vomiting, and confusion, accompanied by fever, diplopia, and bilateral abducens nerve palsies. Preoperative imaging revealed a 2-cm right-sided intranasal mass accompanied by a subcentimeter skull base defect spanning the lateral lamella. After completing a course of intravenous antibiotic therapy for 1 week after a negative lumbar puncture to ensure clearance of intracranial infection, the decision was made to proceed with definitive endoscopic skull base repair to obviate recurrent bacterial meningitis episodes and potential neurological complications. This study demonstrates technical feasibility of a single-stage endoscopic endonasal approach for pediatric basal encephalocele resection and repair which minimizes craniofacial morbidity associated with traditional open approaches and sinonasal morbidity associated with local pedicle-based flaps for small cranial base defects in this unique patient population.

Clival Metastases: Single-Center Retrospective Case Series and Literature Review.

Background/Objectives: Clivus metastases from distant neoplasms are uncommon occurrences both in clinical practice and the neurosurgical literature. Surgical management is debated, particularly about the role of surgery and the preferable approach. The aim of this study was to report our surgical experience and review the concerning literature. Methods: Our institutional registry was retrospectively reviewed, and patients who underwent surgical treatment for clival metastasis from 1998 to 2023 were included. A PRISMA systematic review of the literature was performed. Results: Four patients were enrolled, and all of them underwent an endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA). Three presented with cranial nerve (CN) VI palsy. The aim of surgery was biopsy in all cases. No complications were reported. Mean overall survival (OS) was 6 ± 1 months. The systematic review retrieved 27 papers reporting 39 patients who underwent the surgical treatment of clivus metastases. Most of them (79.5%) presented with CN palsies, and EEA was the preferred approach in 92.3% of the cases, to perform a biopsy in most patients (59%). Two hemorrhagic complications (5.1%) were reported, and the mean OS was 9.4 ± 5.6 months. Conclusions: Clival metastases are uncommonly observed, in most cases, during advanced stages of oncological disease. The aim of surgery should be the confirmation of diagnosis and symptomatic relief, balancing the risk-benefit ratio in a multidisciplinary context. EEA is the approach of choice, and it should be carried out in experienced tertiary skull base centers.

Modified Function-Preserving Endoscopic Endonasal Extracapsular Resection of a Large Orbital Apex Cavernous Hemangioma.

Various invasive oculoplastic procedures are commonly utilized to control the rectus muscles and widen the surgical corridor through the endoscopic endonasal removal of large orbital apex cavernous hemangiomas (OACHs). They require additional transconjunctival incision, rectus muscle insertional retraction, or muscle deinsertion at the globe that might not be safe and lead to prolonged postoperative extraocular muscle dysfunction. In this article, the authors described a modified 3-handed extracapsular technique for the resection of a large OACH without an additional procedure for rectus muscle control. The aim is to achieve a safe gross total tumor removal while minimizing the procedure-related complications. An intraoperative video is included, along with a stepwise cadaveric dissection relevant to the approach. A 71-year-old female presented with progressive left-sided blurred vision, binocular diplopia, and mild proptosis. Contrast-enhanced brain MRI revealed a large heterogeneous enhanced inferomedial intraconal mass in the left orbital apex, mostly consistent with cavernous hemangioma. Gross total tumor removal was achieved through a modified 3-handed endoscopic endonasal extracapsular approach. The diplopia was resolved, and significant visual improvement was achieved. Computed tomography scan demonstrated complete tumor removal, and histological examination confirmed the diagnosis. Endoscopic endonasal resection of large OACH can be feasibly performed by using a modified 3-handed extracapsular technique through the generous use of Q-tip swab applicators within the natural separation plane around the tumor capsule and a sequential traction-countertraction method. Subsequently, a gross total removal and optimal postoperative functional outcome are attainable through minimal rectus muscle fiber violation and intraconal fat manipulation.

Fully endoscopic approach for resection of brainstem cavernous malformations: a systematic review of the literature

BackgroundBrainstem cavernous malformations (BCMs) are benign lesions that typically have an acute onset and are associated with a high rate of morbidity. The selection of the optimal surgical approach is crucial for obtaining favorable outcomes, considering the different anatomical locations of various brainstem lesions. Endoscopic surgery is increasingly utilized in treating of BCMs, owing to its depth illumination and panoramic view capabilities. For intra-axial ventral BCMs, the best surgical options are endoscopic endonasal approaches, following the “two-point method. For cavernous hemangiomas on the dorsal side of the brainstem, endoscopy proves valuable by providing enhanced visualization of the operative field and minimizing the need for brain retraction.MethodsIn this review, we gathered data on the fully endoscopic approach for the resection of BCMs, and outlined technical notes and tips. Total of 15 articles were included in this review. The endoscopic endonasal approach was utilized in 19 patients, and the endoscopic transcranial approach was performed in 3 patients.ResultsThe overall resection rate was 81.8% (18/22). Among the 19 cases of endoscopic endonasal surgery, postoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage occurred in 5 cases, with lesions exceeding 2 cm in diameter in 3 patients with postoperative CSF rhinorrhea. Among the 20 patients with follow-up data, 2 showed no significant improvement after surgery, whereas the remaining 18 patients showed significant improvement compared to their admission symptoms.ConclusionsThis systematic literature review demonstrates that a fully endoscopic approach is a safe and effective option for the resection of BCMs. Further, it can be considered an alternative to conventional craniotomy, particularly when managed by a neurosurgical team with extensive experience in endoscopic surgery, addressing these challenging lesions.

Efficacy of the Craniopharyngioma Resection via Expanded Endoscopic Endonasal Transsphenoidal Approach in the Treatment of Complex Craniopharyngioma and Its Effect on Pituitary Function and Complications of Patients.

Surgical resection is the most effective method for craniopharyngioma, with complex operations and a high incidence of complications, especially for complex craniopharyngioma. The study focuses on selecting a proper surgical method to treat complex craniopharyngioma. A clinical study was conducted in this direction to explore the efficacy of expanded endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal approach (EETS) and transcranial approach (TCA) in the treatment of complex craniopharyngioma and their effects on pituitary function and complications of patients. The clinical data of 73 patients with complex craniopharyngioma in Baoding No.2 Central Hospital from December 2017 to December 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. 13 patients who did not meet the admission criteria were excluded, and 60 patients were finally included. The included patients were divided into the TCA and EETS groups according to the treatment method. The surgical conditions, total tumor resection rate, clinical remission rate, and complications of patients in two groups were compared. The pituitary function of all patients, including thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), and human growth hormone (hGH), was compared. A total of 60 patients were finally included in the study, including 30 cases in the EETS group and 30 cases in the TCA group. The two groups had no statistical difference in baseline demographic characteristics and pathological types (p > 0.05). Compared with the TCA group, the EETS group had less intraoperative blood loss, operation time, tumor resection time, and hospitalization time (p < 0.001) and had a significantly higher total tumor resection rate and clinical remission rate (p < 0.05). The EETS group had higher ACTH and hGH levels than the TCA group (p < 0.05). There was no statistical difference between the two groups incidence of complications and disease recurrence rate (p > 0.05). The craniopharyngioma resection via EETS has a significant therapeutic effect in complex craniopharyngioma with a high total tumor resection rate and clinical remission rate, which can protect the pituitary function of patients and provide more benefits for patients.

Predicting the Need for Occipitocervical Fusion for Patients with Lower Clival Chordoma: A Single-Center Retrospective Study

To assess the impact of tumor extension into the occipital condyle (OC) in lower clival chordoma management and the need for occipito-cervical fusion (OCF). A retrospective analysis was conducted on 35 patients with lower clival chordoma. The preoperative area of the intact OCs, Hounsfield units, and the integrity of the apical ligament and the tectorial membrane were assessed using preoperative imaging. Seven (20%) patients were in the OCF group. The OCF group exhibited a higher prevalence of preoperative pain in the neck or head (p = 0.006), ligament absence (p = 0.022), and increased propensity for postoperative wound issues (p = 0.022) than the non-OCF group. The OCF group had less intact OCs (p < 0.001) and higher spinal instability neoplastic score (p = 0.002) than the non-OCF group. All patients with intact OCs<60% underwent OCF, and those with OCs≥70% were treated without OCF. Those with OCs between 60% and 69% underwent OCF if the ligaments were eroded, and did not undergo OCF if the ligaments were intact. Treatment strategies varied, with endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA) alone being common. Radiation therapy was administered to 89% of patients. All three patients treated with OCF after tumor resection had wound issues; none treated with OCF before resection had wound issues. None developed atlanto-occipital instability. Survival rates did not significantly differ between groups. In the absence of mobility-related neck pain, patients with lower clival chordoma and intact OC≥60%, intact apical ligament, and intact tectorial membrane, may not require OCF.

Comparative Efficacy of Transsphenoidal and Transcranial Approaches for Treating Tuberculum Sellae Meningiomas: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Background/Objectives: Tuberculum sellae meningiomas (TSMs) constitute 5-10% of intracranial meningiomas, often causing visual impairment. Traditional microsurgical transcranial approaches (MTAs) have been effective, but the emergence of innovative surgical trajectories, such as endoscopic endonasal approaches (EEAs), has sparked debate. While EEAs offer advantages like reduced brain retraction, they are linked to higher cerebrospinal fluid leak (CSF leak) risk. This meta-analysis aims to comprehensively compare the efficacy and safety of EEAs and MTAs for the resection of TSMs, offering insights into their respective outcomes and complications. Methods: A comprehensive literature review of the databases PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, and Ovid EMBASE was conducted for articles published on TSMs treated with either EEA or MTA until 2024. The systematic review was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines. Meta-analysis was performed to estimate pooled event rates and assess heterogeneity. Fixed- and random-effects were used to assess 95% confidential intervals (CIs) of presenting symptoms, outcomes, and complications. Results: A total of 291 papers were initially identified, of which 18 studies spanning from 2000 to 2024 met the inclusion criteria. The exclusion of 180 articles was due to reasons such as irrelevance, non-reporting of selected results, systematic literature review or meta-analysis, and a lack of details on method/results. The 18 studies comprised a total sample of 1093 patients: 444 patients who underwent EEAs and 649 patients who underwent MTAs for TSMs. Gross total resection (GTR) rates ranged from 80.9% for EEAs to 79.8% for MTAs. The rate of visual improvement was 86.6% in the EEA group and 65.4% in the MTA group. The recurrence rate in the EEA group was 6.9%, while it was 5.1% in MTA group. The postoperative complications analyzed were CSF leak, infections, dysosmia, intracranial hemorrhage (ICH), and endocrine disorders. The rate of CSF leak was 9.8% in the EEA group and 2.1% in MTA group. The rate of infections in the EEA group was 5.7%, while it was 3.7% in the MTA group. The rate of dysosmia ranged from 10.3% for MTAs to 12.9% for EEAs. The rate of ICH in the EEA group was 0.9%, while that in the MTA group was 3.8%. The rate of endocrine disorders in the EEA group was 10.8%, while that in the MTA group was 10.2%. No significant difference was detected in the rate of GTR between the EEA and MTA groups (OR 1.15, 95% CI 0.7-0.95; p = 0.53), while a significant benefit in visual outcomes was shown in EEAs (OR 3.54, 95% CI 2.2-5.72; p < 0.01). There was no significant variation in the recurrence rate between EEA and MTA groups (OR 0.92, 95% CI 0.19-4.46; p = 0.89). While a considerably increased chance of CSF leak from EEAs was shown (OR 4.47, 95% CI 2.52-7.92; p < 0.01), no significant difference between EEA and MTA groups was detected in the rate of infections (OR 1.92, 95% CI 0.73-5.06; p = 0.15), the rate of dysosmia (OR 1.25, 95% CI 0.31-4.99; p = 0.71), the rate of ICH (OR 0.61, 95% CI 0.20-1.87; p = 0.33), and the rate of endocrine disorders (OR 1.16, 95% CI 0.69-1.95; p = 0.53). Conclusions: This meta-analysis suggests that both EEAs and MTAs are viable options for TSM resection, with distinct advantages and drawbacks. The EEAs demonstrate superior visual outcomes in selected cases while GTR and recurrence rates support the overall effectiveness of MTAs and EEAs. Endoscopic endonasal approaches had a higher chance of CSF leaks, but there are no appreciable variations in other complications. These results provide additional insights regarding patient outcomes in the intricate clinical setting of TSMs.