What is skull base?

The skull is composed of bones and cartilage that form the face and the cranium, which surrounds the brain. The five bones that form the bottom, or base of the cranium also form the eye socket, roof of the nasal cavity, some of the sinuses, and the bones that surround the inner ear. The skull base is a crowded and complicated area with openings that spinal cord, many blood vessels and nerves all pass through.

What is skull base surgery?

Skull base surgery is done to remove both benign and cancerous growths and abnormalities on the underside of the brain, skull base or at the top vertebrae of the spinal column. Because this is such a difficult area to see and reach, skull base surgeries are performed by minimally invasive endoscopic procedures in which instruments are inserted through the natural openings in the skull – the – nose or mouth- or by making small incisions above the eye brow.

Ailments that can be treated by skull base surgeries-

Pituitary tumors – The pituitary gland sits behind the nose and eyes. Any outgrowth on this gland is cab be removed using this technique with minimal loss of blood and less pain
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks occurs when there is an abnormal communication between the CFS containing space around the brain (subarachnoid space) and the nasal roof or sinuses.

How is skull surgery performed?

Skull base surgeries can be done in two ways Traditional or open skull base surgeries – this type of surgery may require incisions in the facial area and the skull. Parts of bone may need to be removed so that the growth can be reached and removed. This method is relatively painful and uncomfortable for the patient.
Endoscopic or minimally– invasive skull base surgery – this type of surgery usually does not require a large incision. An ENT surgeon may approach the pathology via Trans – nasal route. Intra operative navigation system ensures thorough and safe clearance of the tumor. It helps surgeons to operate around vital structures of the brain (like optic nerve, internal carotid artery) with greater confidence and precision.
Endoscopic skull base surgery has undergone rapid advancement. Evolution of technology as well as advances and reconstruction, have fostered this capability. This kind of surgery is being preferred as it involves less morbidity, reduced hospital and stay and is cost- effective.