Member-only story

Endoscopic Approaches to the Paranasal Sinuses and Skull Base

Paul Reed

·6.6k Followers· Follow

Published in Endoscopic Approaches To The Paranasal Sinuses And Skull Base: A Step By Step Anatomic Dissection Guide

4 min read

371 View Claps

37 Respond

Save

Listen

Endoscopic Approaches to the Paranasal Sinuses and Skull Base: A Step-by-Step Anatomic Dissection Guide

by Timothy Hallinan

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	123932 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	1028 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

Endoscopic surgery has revolutionized the treatment of diseases affecting the paranasal sinuses and skull base. This minimally invasive approach allows surgeons to access these complex anatomical regions through the natural orifices of the nose and mouth, minimizing tissue trauma and scarring. Endoscopic approaches offer numerous advantages over traditional open surgical techniques, including improved visualization, reduced blood loss, shorter hospital stays, and better cosmetic outcomes.

Anatomic Considerations

The paranasal sinuses are a group of air-filled cavities located within the facial bones. They include the maxillary, frontal, ethmoid, and sphenoid sinuses. The skull base is the bony structure that forms the floor of the cranial cavity and separates the brain from the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses.

The paranasal sinuses and skull base are closely related anatomically. The ethmoid sinuses, in particular, are located adjacent to the skull base and can extend into the cranial cavity. This proximity makes endoscopic approaches to the skull base through the paranasal sinuses possible.

Indications for Endoscopic Approaches

Endoscopic approaches to the paranasal sinuses and skull base are indicated for a variety of conditions, including:

Chronic sinusitis
Nasal polyps
Tumors of the paranasal sinuses and skull base
Cerebrospinal fluid leaks
Orbital disorders

Surgical Techniques

There are several different endoscopic approaches to the paranasal sinuses and skull base, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The choice of approach depends on the specific pathology being treated and the surgeon's experience and preferences.

Transnasal Endoscopic Surgery

Transnasal endoscopic surgery (TNES) is the most common approach to the paranasal sinuses and skull base. TNES is performed through the nostrils, using specialized instruments that allow the surgeon to visualize and access the sinuses and skull base.

TNES is less invasive than traditional open surgical approaches and offers several advantages, including:

Improved visualization
Reduced blood loss
Shorter hospital stays
Better cosmetic outcomes

Transoral Endoscopic Surgery

Transoral endoscopic surgery (TOES) is an endoscopic approach to the paranasal sinuses and skull base that is performed through the mouth. TOES is typically used to access the posterior paranasal sinuses and skull base, which are difficult to reach through the nose.

TOES offers several advantages over TNES, including:

Improved access to the posterior paranasal sinuses and skull base
Reduced risk of damaging the nasal mucosa
Better visualization of the nasopharynx

Transorbital Endoscopic Surgery

Transorbital endoscopic surgery (TOES) is an endoscopic approach to the paranasal sinuses and skull base that is performed through the orbit. TOES is typically used to access the medial paranasal sinuses and

Endoscopic Approaches to the Paranasal Sinuses and Skull Base: A Step-by-Step Anatomic Dissection Guide

by Timothy Hallinan

5 out of 5