skull base surgery

Skull base surgery is a highly specialized surgical approach focused on treating conditions located at the base of the skull. This area includes the complex structures and critical nerves, blood vessels, and tissues that connect the brain to the rest of the body. Skull base surgery can be used to address a variety of conditions, including tumors, vascular abnormalities, and congenital anomalies.

Types of Skull Base Surgery:

• Anterior Skull Base Surgery: Targets the area above the eyes and nose, including the frontal sinuses and the anterior cranial fossa.
• Middle Skull Base Surgery: Focuses on the area behind the eyes and above the ears, including the temporal bones and the sphenoid sinus.
• Posterior Skull Base Surgery: Involves the area near the back of the head, including the cerebellum, brainstem, and the occipital bone.

Conditions Treated with Skull Base Surgery:

• Brain Tumors: Such as meningiomas, pituitary adenomas, and acoustic neuromas.
• Cranial Nerve Disorders: Including trigeminal neuralgia and hemifacial spasm.
• Vascular Abnormalities: Such as aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), and cavernous malformations.
• Congenital Anomalies: Such as encephaloceles and craniofacial malformations.
• Infections: Including chronic sinus infections that have spread to the skull base.
• Trauma: Repairing fractures and other injuries to the skull base.

Benefits of Minimally Invasive Skull Base Surgery:

• Reduced Trauma: Smaller incisions result in less damage to surrounding tissues.
• Shorter Recovery Time: Patients typically recover more quickly compared to traditional open surgery.
• Less Pain and Scarring: Minimally invasive techniques result in less post-operative pain and minimal scarring.
• Lower Risk of Complications: Reduced risk of infection and other complications associated with large incisions.