Outcome results of endoscopic vs craniofacial resection of sinonasal malignancies: a systematic review and pooled-data analysis

Surgical resection and overall survival in cT4b sinonasal non-squamous cell carcinoma

Objective

Surgical resection is associated with higher overall survival (OS) than definitive radiotherapy (RT) or chemoradiotherapy (CRT) in cT4b sinonasal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Our study investigates the survival benefit of surgical resection in cT4b sinonasal non-SCC.

Methods

The 2004 to 2019 National Cancer Database was queried for patients with cT4b sinonasal non-SCC undergoing definitive treatment with (1) surgical resection + additional therapy (RT, chemotherapy, or both), (2) RT alone, or (3) CRT. Surgical resection + additional therapy and definitive RT/CRT were compared with Kaplan-Meier and multivariable Cox regression models.

Results

Of 629 patients satisfying inclusion criteria, 513 (81.6%) underwent surgical resection + additional therapy and 116 (18.4%) underwent definitive RT/CRT. The most frequent histologic types were undifferentiated carcinoma (23.7%), adenoid cystic carcinoma (22.6%), and adenocarcinoma (20.7%). Few patients presented with clinical nodal metastasis (15.7%). There were 4 (0.8%) mortalities within 90 days of surgical resection. Patients undergoing surgical resection with positive surgical margins had higher 5-year OS than those undergoing definitive RT/CRT (56.3% vs. 39.4%, p = .039) and similar 5-year OS as those with negative margins (56.3% vs. 63.9%, p = .059). Patients undergoing neoadjuvant chemotherapy had similar 5-year OS as those undergoing definitive RT/CRT (60.9% vs. 39.5%, p = .053). Age at diagnosis, tumor diameter, and surgical resection + additional therapy (aHR 0.64, 95% CI 0.45-0.91) were associated with OS (p < .05).

Conclusion

Surgical resection + additional therapy was associated with higher OS than definitive RT/CRT in cT4b sinonasal non-SCC. Surgical resection may benefit select patient with cT4b sinonasal non-SCC.

Level of Evidence

4.

Endoscopic-assisted transorbital extended orbital exenteration: A multi-institutional preclinical study

BACKGROUND

Sinonasal malignancies with orbital invasion have dismal prognosis even when treated with orbital exenteration (OE). Sugawara et al. developed a surgical strategy called "extended-OE (EOE)," showing encouraging outcomes. We hypothesized that a similar resection is achievable under endoscopic guidance through the exenterated orbit (endoscopic-EOE).

METHODS

The study was conducted in three institutions: University of Vienna; Mayo Clinic; University of Insubria; 48 orbital dissections were performed. A questionnaire was developed to evaluate feasibility and safety of each step, scoring from 1 to 10, ("impossible" to "easy," and "high risk" to "low risk," respectively), most likely complication(s) were hypothesized.

RESULTS

The step-by-step technique is thoroughly described. The questionnaire was answered by 25 anterior skull base surgeons from six countries. Mean, median, range, and interquartile range of both feasibility and safety scores are reported.

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic-EOE is a challenging but feasible procedure. Clinical validation is required to assess real-life outcomes.

Development of an evaluation and treatment strategy for olfactory neuroblastoma: a review of evidence from large-scale studies, including population-based and multicenter studies, and meta-analyses

Olfactory neuroblastoma is a rare sinonasal malignancy arising from the olfactory epithelium that is characterized by skull base involvement and a modest natural history. Because of its rarity and long course, identification of independent prognostic factors is dependent on multivariate analysis of large, long-term data. In this review, we outline evidence for the evaluation and treatment of olfactory neuroblastoma obtained from recent large-scale population-based studies, meta-analyses and multicenter studies. Hyams grade is currently the only pathological grade system for olfactory neuroblastoma. The modified Kadish staging and Dulguerov classification are available for clinical staging. The results of large-scale studies have confirmed Hyams, the modified Kadish and Dulguerov as independent prognostic factors. Surgery followed by radiotherapy provides the best overall survival and recurrence-free survival for resectable disease. The question of whether postoperative radiotherapy should be administered for all cases or only for those at risk of recurrence remains unanswered. Exclusively endoscopic resection is indicated for modified Kadish A/B cases without any increase in the risk of death or recurrence, and is also indicated for modified Kadish C cases if a negative surgical margin is ensured. For more advanced cases, such as those with extensive brain infiltration, the open approach is indicated. Elective nodal irradiation prevents late nodal recurrence of N0 patients. Chemotherapy has failed to show a benefit in survival or disease control. Current needs for olfactory neuroblastoma include the development and validation of refined staging systems suitable for current practice; expansion of indications for endoscopic surgery; less invasive surgery; definitive radiotherapy and novel systemic therapy.

Clinical Outcome in Patients with Large Sinonasal Tumors with Intracranial Extension

Objectives  Malignant tumors of the sinonasal cavities with extension to the frontal skull base are rare and challenging pathologies. Combined-approach surgery using a frontobasal craniotomy and endoscopic sinus surgery with reconstruction of the anterior skull base followed by adjuvant radiotherapy is a preferred treatment strategy in selected cases. Morbidity and mortality rates are high in this population. We aim to add our experience to the current literature. Design  We performed a retrospective cross-sectional single center study of the long-term clinical outcome in a tertiary university referral hospital in the Netherlands between 2010 and 2021. Descriptive statistics and frequency distributions were performed Participants  Patient, tumor, treatment, complications and survival characteristics of eighteen consecutive patients were extracted from the electronic health records. Main Outcome Measures  The primary outcome measures are progression free survival, overall survival and complication rate. Results  Eighteen consecutive patients were included with a mean age of 61 (SD ± 10) years (range 38-80); ten males and eight females. Gross total resection was achieved in 14 (77%) patients. Eleven (61%) patients underwent local radiotherapy, one (5%) chemotherapy and three (17%) a combination of both. Mean follow-up duration was 49 months (range 3 - 138). Three (17%) patients died in hospital due to post-operative complications. Six (33%) patients died during follow-up due to disease progression. Mean progression-free survival was 47 months (range 0 - 113). Conclusion  In conclusion, the overall survival was 50% for this group of patients with large sinonasal tumors. Progressive disease affects survival rate severely. Surgical complications were seen in five (28%) patients. Radiotherapy is associated with high complication rates. Radiation necrosis was a serious complication in two patients and could be treated with high dose steroids.

Surgical management of advanced sinonasal cancer: a 10-year mono-institutional experience

Objective

Endoscopic endonasal surgery is effective in the treatment of sinonasal cancers. However, in cases of well-differentiated locally advanced neoplasms as well as recurrences, the most appropriate treatment is debated. The purpose of this study is to report a mono-institutional experience on craniofacial surgery performed in a tertiary-care referral centre.

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of 90 patients treated with transcranial and/or transfacial resection for sinonasal cancer between 2010 and 2020. Outcome measures included overall survival (OS), disease-specific survival (DSS), disease-free survival (DFS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS).

Results

The 5-year OS, DSS and DFS were 48.2%, 60.6% and 28.7%, respectively. Factors correlated with prognosis were pT-classification (p = 0.002), histotype (p = 0.012) and dural involvement (p = 0.004). Independent prognostic factors were orbital apex infiltration (p = 0.03), age (p = 0.002) and adjuvant therapy (p = 0.03).

Conclusions

When endoscopic endonasal surgery is contraindicated and chemoradiotherapy is not appropriate, craniofacial and transfacial approaches still represent an option to consider, despite the non-negligible morbidity.

Long-Term Outcomes of Endoscopic Resection versus Open Surgery for Locally Advanced Sinonasal Malignancies in Combination with Radiotherapy

Objective  Our objective was to compare the long-term outcomes of endoscopic resection versus open surgery in combination with radiotherapy for locally advanced sinonasal malignancies (SNMs). Methods  Data for continuous patients with sinonasal squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma who received surgery (endoscopic or open surgery) combined with radiotherapy in our center between January 1999 and December 2016 were retrospectively reviewed. A 1:1 matching with propensity scores was performed. Overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and local recurrence rate (LRR) were evaluated. Results  We identified 267 eligible patients, 90 of whom were included after matching: 45 patients in the endoscopy group and 45 in the open group. The median follow-up time was 87 months. In the endoscopic group, 84.4% of patients received intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT), with a mean gross tumor volume (GTV) dose of 68.28 Gy; in the open surgery group, 64.4% of patients received IMRT, with a mean GTV dose of 64 Gy. The 5-year OS, PFS, and LRR were 69.9, 58.6, and 24.5% in the endoscopic group and 64.6, 54.4, and 31.8% in the open surgery group, respectively. Multivariable regression analysis revealed that the surgical approach was not associated with lower OS, PFS, or LRR. The overall postoperative complications were 13% in the endoscopic group, while 21.7% in the open group. Conclusion  For patients with locally advanced SNMs, minimally invasive endoscopic resection, in combination with a higher radiation dose and new radiation techniques such as IMRT, yields survival outcomes similar to those of open surgery in combination with radiotherapy.

International Consensus Statement on Allergy and Rhinology: Sinonasal Tumors

BACKGROUND

Sinonasal neoplasms, whether benign and malignant, pose a significant challenge to clinicians and represent a model area for multidisciplinary collaboration in order to optimize patient care. The International Consensus Statement on Allergy and Rhinology: Sinonasal Tumors (ICSNT) aims to summarize the best available evidence and presents 48 thematic and histopathology-based topics spanning the field.

METHODS

In accordance with prior International Consensus Statement on Allergy and Rhinology documents, ICSNT assigned each topic as an Evidence-Based Review with Recommendations, Evidence-Based Review, and Literature Review based on the level of evidence. An international group of multidisciplinary author teams were assembled for the topic reviews using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses format, and completed sections underwent a thorough and iterative consensus-building process. The final document underwent rigorous synthesis and review prior to publication.

RESULTS

The ICSNT document consists of four major sections: general principles, benign neoplasms and lesions, malignant neoplasms, and quality of life and surveillance. It covers 48 conceptual and/or histopathology-based topics relevant to sinonasal neoplasms and masses. Topics with a high level of evidence provided specific recommendations, while other areas summarized the current state of evidence. A final section highlights research opportunities and future directions, contributing to advancing knowledge and community intervention.

CONCLUSION

As an embodiment of the multidisciplinary and collaborative model of care in sinonasal neoplasms and masses, ICSNT was designed as a comprehensive, international, and multidisciplinary collaborative endeavor. Its primary objective is to summarize the existing evidence in the field of sinonasal neoplasms and masses.

Endoscopic Endonasal Approach to Intraconal Orbital Tumors: Outcomes and Lessons Learned

BACKGROUND

Lesions involving the intraconal space of the orbit are rare and challenging to manage. Operative techniques and outcomes for the endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA) to tumors in the medial intraconal space (MIS) remain poorly characterized.

OBJECTIVE

We present our experience with a wide range of isolated intraconal pathology managed via an EEA.

METHODS

A retrospective review of all cases (2014-2021) performed by a single skull base team in which the EEA was employed for the management of an intraconal orbital lesion.

RESULTS

Twenty patients (13 men, 7 women) with a mean age of 59 years (range, 40-89 years) were included. All lesions were isolated to the MIS, pathology addressed included: cavernous hemangioma (6), schwannoma (4), lymphoma (4), inflammatory pseudotumor (2), chronic invasive fungal sinusitis (2), and metastatic disease (2). Either a biopsy (10/20) or a complete resection (10/20) was performed. In all cases, the MIS was accessed via an endonasal corridor between the medial and inferior rectus muscles. Retraction and safe, intra-orbital dissection of the lesion was performed using a two-surgeon, multi-handed technique. Gross total resection of benign lesions was achieved in 90% (9/10) of cases; a pathologic diagnosis was achieved in 100% (10/10) of biopsy cases. No orbital reconstruction was required. Visual acuity returned to normal in 80% (8/10) of planned resection cases and postoperative diplopia resolved by 3 months in 90%. Mean follow-up was 15 months.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that the EEA is safe and effective for accessing lesions in the MIS. This technique affords very favorable outcomes with minimal postoperative morbidity.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4 Laryngoscope, 134:47-55, 2024.

Olfactory neuroblastoma: diagnosis, management, and current treatment options

Olfactory neuroblastoma (ONB) is a rare neoplasm originating from the olfactory neuroepithelium representing 3-6% of tumors of the sinonasal tract. ONB require multi-disciplinary care. Historically, the gold standard surgical procedure for ONB has been open craniofacial resection. In the last years, endoscopic endonasal approaches have been largely introduced with lower complication rates, shorter hospital stay, and similar clinical outcome. Radiotherapy plays an important role in the management of ONB, however there are not generally accepted recommendations for its application. Although there is agreement that multimodal therapy is needed, the optimal use of chemotherapy is still unknown. The rarity of the disease, makes difficult to draw definitive conclusions about the role of systemic treatment in induction and concomitant setting.

Imaging Recommendations for Diagnosis, Staging, and Management of Sinonasal Tumors

Sinonasal tumors are a relatively rare and heterogeneous group of tumors. Owing to their nonspecific presentation and rarity, they can be potentially overlooked resulting in delayed diagnosis and management, and increased patient morbidity. Imaging is crucial for the detection, staging, surgical planning, follow-up as well as surveillance of sinonasal masses, wherein computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) play complementary roles. CT is better at depicting bony changes, while MRI is useful for delineating the extent of soft tissue lesion, detect perineural, intracranial, or intraorbital spread as well as differentiate trapped sinus secretions from tumor tissue. Other modalities like fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography/computed tomography (FDG-PET/CT) and arteriography can be selectively employed. FDG-PET is useful for metastatic workup and detection of residual/ recurrent disease. Arteriography and endovascular image-guided interventions are useful to delineate supply of vascular tumors and perform preoperative embolization. A systematic evidence-based approach to a possible case of sinonasal tumor can go a long way in streamlining the detection and management of these tumors, while optimizing the use of available healthcare resources.

Factors Contributing to Diagnosis and Prognosis in Sinonasal Malignancies

Objectives. This study was intended to explore and analyze the factors which affect the survival and prognosis of patients with malignant tumors of nasal cavity and sinus. Methods. Retrospective analysis was performed on the clinical data of 39 cases of malignant tumors of nasal cavity and sinus that met the requirements of the study. A follow-up study was performed on the patients for more than 36 months. Survival analysis was conducted via the Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank test. Cox regression model was used for multivariate analysis. Results. Gender, pathological type, treatment plan, clinical stage, and survival time of patients were different. Clinical stage was substantially related to the survival of patients ( $P<0.05$ ), which was an independent factor affecting prognosis. Conclusions. Early detection and comprehensive treatment of sinonasal malignancies can improve the prognosis and prolong the survival time of patients.

The MUSES∗: a prognostic study on 1360 patients with sinonasal cancer undergoing endoscopic surgery-based treatment: ∗MUlti-institutional collaborative Study on Endoscopically treated Sinonasal cancers

BACKGROUND

Over the last 2 decades, transnasal endoscopic surgery (TES) has become the most frequently employed surgical technique to treat sinonasal malignancies. The rarity and heterogeneity of sinonasal cancers have hampered large non-population-based analyses.

METHODOLOGY

All patients receiving TES-including treatment between 1995 and 2021 in 5 referral hospitals were included. A prognostic study was performed, and multivariable models were transformed into nomograms. Training and validation sets were based on results from 3 European and 2 non-European centres, respectively.

RESULTS

The training and validation set included 940 and 420 patients, respectively. The mean age at surgery, primary-versus-recurrent presentation, histology distribution, type of surgery, T category and type of adjuvant treatment were differently distributed in the training and validation set. In the training set, 5-year overall survival and recurrence-free survival with a 95%-confidence interval were 72.7% (69.5-76.0%) and 66.4% (63.1-69.8%), respectively, significantly varying with histology. At multivariable analyses, age, gender, previous treatment, the extent of resection on the cranial, lateral and posterolateral axes, grade/subtype, T category, nodal status, margin status and adjuvant treatment were all associated with different prognostic outcomes, displaying a heterogeneous significance and effect size according to histology. The internal and external validation of nomograms was satisfactory (optimism-corrected C-index >0.7 and cumulative area under curve >0.7) for all histologies but mucosal melanoma.

CONCLUSIONS

Outcomes of TES-based treatment of sinonasal cancers vary substantially with histology. This large, non-population-based study provides benchmark data on the prognosis of sinonasal cancers that are deemed suitable for treatment including TES.

Dramatic response to targeted therapy in an aggressive olfactory neuroblastoma: illustrative case

BACKGROUND

Olfactory neuroblastomas are rare sinonasal tumors that arise from the olfactory epithelium. The authors presented a case of an olfactory neuroblastoma with extensive cranial invasion that demonstrated dramatic response to sorafenib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor.

OBSERVATIONS

A 54-year-old man with history of prostate cancer and melanoma presented with left-sided proptosis and was found to have a 6.5-cm Kadish stage D olfactory neuroblastoma with cranial invasion that was refractory to chemotherapy and everolimus. However, it demonstrated dramatic response to sorafenib, causing extensive skull base defects that prompted operative repair. Genomic analysis of the tumor revealed mutations in TSC1 and SUFU. The patient developed disease progression with liver metastases 35 months after starting sorafenib, prompting a change to lenvatinib. He experienced progression of his olfactory neuroblastoma 10 months following this change and died in hospice 1 month later.

LESSONS

The authors reviewed the clinical presentation and management of a large olfactory neuroblastoma with dramatic response to sorafenib. They highlighted prior uses of targeted therapy in the management of refractory olfactory neuroblastoma within the context of current standard treatment regimens. Targeted therapies may play a vital role in the management of refractory olfactory neuroblastoma.

The Selective Role of Open and Endoscopic Approaches for Sinonasal Malignant Tumours

Endoscopic endonasal surgery has been demonstrated to be effective in the treatment of selected cases of sinonasal cancers. However, in cases of locally advanced neoplasms, as well as recurrences, the most appropriate approach is still debated. The present review aims to summarize the current state of knowledge on the utility of open approaches to resect sinonasal malignant tumours. Published comparative studies and meta-analyses suggest comparable oncological results with lower morbidity for the endoscopic approaches, but selection biases cannot be excluded. After a critical analysis of the available literature, it can be concluded that endoscopic surgery for selected lesions allows for oncologically safe resections with decreased morbidity. However, when endoscopic endonasal surgery is contraindicated and definitive chemoradiotherapy is not appropriate, craniofacial and transfacial approaches remain the best therapeutic option.

Carotid artery injury in endoscopic endonasal surgery: Risk factors, prevention, and management

Objective

Endoscopic approaches for sinus and skull base surgery are increasing in popularity. The objective of this narrative review is to characterize risk factors for internal carotid artery injury in endoscopic endonasal surgery (EES), highlight preventative measures, and illustrate key management principles.

Data Sources

Comprehensive literature review.

Methods

Relevant literature was reviewed using PubMed/MEDLINE.

Results

Carotid artery injury in EES is rare, with most studies reporting an incidence below 0.1%. Anatomic aberrancies, wide dissection margins, as well as specific provider and hospital factors, may increase the risk of injury. Multidisciplinary teams, comprehensive preoperative imaging, patient risk assessment, and formal training in vascular emergencies may reduce the risk. Management protocols should emphasize proper visualization of the injury site, fluid replacement, rapid packing, angiography, and endovascular techniques to achieve hemostasis.

Conclusions

While EES is a relatively safe procedure, carotid artery injury is a devastating complication that warrants full consideration in surgical planning. Important preventative measures include identifying patients with notable risk factors and obtaining preoperative imaging. Multidisciplinary teams and management protocols are ultimately necessary to reduce morbidity and mortality.

Outcomes of endoscopic and open resection of sinonasal malignancies: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To compare the efficacy of endoscopic and open resection of sinonasal malignancies.

METHODS

The search was performed using PubMed (1950-2020), Embase (1974-2020), the Cochrane library, and the website clinicaltrials.gov. The hazard ratio, HR, 95% confidence interval, CI, of the rates of overall survival and disease-free survival and the demographic characteristics of the included studies were extracted and analyzed. Pooled analysis was conducted with the studies' individual patient data, using log-rank test, Kaplan-Meier survival, and Cox regression analysis.

RESULTS

Of 1939 articles retrieved, 23 articles were included. Overall, 1373 cases were incorporated into the final analysis, 653 (47.56%) of which underwent the surgery through an endoscopic approach, whereas 720 (52.44%) cases utilized the open approach. The overall survival was comparable between endoscopic and open resection (HR = 0.84 [95% CI: 0.65-1.07], p = 0.16; random effects analysis). Pooled analysis with Cox regression revealed signifcant differences in overall survival (HR = 0.568 [95%CI:0.380-0.849], p = 0.006) and disease-free survival (HR = 0.628 [95%CI:0.424-0.929], p = 0.02) between endoscopic and open approaches.

CONCLUSION

The aggregated evidence suggests the survival outcome of endoscopic resection is comparable or greater than that of open resection of sinonasal malignancies.

Cancer of the Paranasal Sinuses

Sinonasal malignancies rare and pathologically diverse and make up <1% of all malignancies. Due to their anatomical location, they can cause significant morbidity with involvement of surrounding critical structures. They often present at a late stage with insidious onset of symptoms. Treatment of sinonasal malignancies is challenging and they often require a multimodality approach with surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Outcomes are poor with 5-year overall survival around 32%, but this varies greatly depending on histologic subtype. There is an urgent need for more randomized controlled trials to better define the appropriate therapeutic regimens and to improve clinical outcomes.

Conditional and Overall Disease-Specific Survival in Patients With Paranasal Sinus and Nasal Cavity Cancer: Improved Outcomes in the Endoscopic Era

BACKGROUND

The management of paranasal sinus and nasal cavity malignancies has evolved significantly with the development of advanced endoscopic techniques and improvements in adjuvant therapy. We sought to characterize both disease-specific survival (DSS) and 5-year conditional disease-specific survival (CDSS, the change in life expectancy with increasing survivorship) for sinus malignancies diagnosed before and after the year 2000.

METHODS

Patients diagnosed with sinus and nasal cavity cancer between 1973-2015 were extracted from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, End Results (SEER) registry. Kaplan-Meier analysis for DSS was stratified by year of diagnosis before and after 2000. Cox-proportional hazards models of DSS controlling for stage, age, and year of diagnosis were generated. CDSS was calculated using Cox-regression models stratified by stage.

RESULTS

We analyzed 10,535 patients. Diagnosis after the year 2000 was independently associated with improved DSS (HR:0.81, 95% CI: 0.75-0.87, P < .001) after controlling for age and stage. After stratifying by stage, diagnosis after year 2000 was associated with improved DSS for localized (HR:0.71, 0.59-0.86, P < .001) malignancies, regional (HR: 0.86, 0.78-0.94, P = .001) and distant malignancies (HR 0.74, 0.63-0.87, P < .001). CDSS improved with increasing survivorship for all stages of sinus and nasal cavity cancer, and those diagnosed after 2000 had improved CDSS compared to those diagnosed before 2000. Descriptively, the association of year of diagnosis with CDSS diminished with increasing survivorship for localized cancers, but was consistent for other stages.

CONCLUSION

For paranasal sinus and nasal cavity malignancies, year of diagnosis independently influences both DSS and CDSS. Improved survival is likely due to advances in both surgical and adjuvant treatments. To our knowledge, this study is the first to examine CDSS for these malignancies.

Endonasal endoscopic surgery for sinonasal squamous cell carcinoma from an oncological perspective

Endonasal endoscopic surgery (EES) has been applied to the management of sinonasal (SN) tumors based on recent advances in endoscopic surgical techniques and technologies over the past three decades. EES has been mainly indicated for benign tumors and less aggressive malignant tumors. Notwithstanding this, EES has been gradually adopted for squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), which is the most common histology among SN malignancies. However, an analysis of the outcomes of EES for patients with SCC is difficult because most articles included SCC a wide range of different tumor histologies. Therefore, we herein review and clarify the current status of EES focusing on SCC from an oncological perspective. The oncologic outcomes and the ability to achieve a histologically complete resection are similar between endoscopic and open approaches in highly selected patients with SN-SCC. Surgical complications associated with EES are likely similar for SN-SCC compared to other sinonasal malignancies. The indications for a minimally invasive approach such as EES in the management of patients with SN-SCC should be stricter than those for less aggressive malignant tumors because of the aggressive nature of SCC. Also, it is important to achieve negative surgical margins with EES in patients with SCC. We believe that the indications for EES for SN-SCC are widening due to advances in diagnostic imaging, and endoscopic surgical techniques and technologies. However, while expanding the indications for EES for SN-SCC we must carefully confirm that the outcomes support this strategy.

[Impact of reconstructive or minimal invasive surgery on the assessment of current definitions of postoperative clinical target volume for head and neck cancers]

Advances in the reconstructive surgery and minimally invasive endonasal endoscopic surgery of head and neck is poorly evaluated in terms of their impact on radiotherapy planning and outcomes. These surgical advances have resulted in reduced morbidity with equivalent or better tumor control. In the absence of a recommendation on how to delineate target volumes in patients with flaps or to consider margins after endoscopic endonasal surgery, radiotherapy practices are inevitably heterogeneous. Efforts are needed to increase the therapeutic index of postoperative radiotherapy in these situations. We analysed the rare existing literature and outlined a preliminary basis for a recommendation. Strengthening of multidisciplinarity to accurately define target volumes in these complex and relatively new situations, and "delineation concertation meetings" between radiologists, surgeons and radiation oncologists could probably contribute to improved outcomes.

Comparison of Open and Endoscopic Approaches in the Resection of Esthesioneuroblastoma

BACKGROUND

Olfactory neuroblastoma, or esthesioneuroblastoma (ENB), is an uncommon sinonasal malignancy arising from olfactory neuroepithelium that is optimally treated with surgical resection. The objective of this study is to determine preoperative predictors of undergoing open versus endoscopic approach for ENB and to investigate significant postoperative survival outcomes between the two surgical approaches.

METHODS

The National Cancer Database (NCDB) was queried for cases of ENB histology that were treated surgically from 2010 to 2015. Groups were stratified into open or endoscopic approach cohorts. Patient demographics, tumor characteristics, treatment modality, and 5-year overall survival were compared between the two groups using Chi-Square analysis and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. Cases were classified as Kadish stage A, B, C, or D based on the "Collaborative Stage-Extension" codes in NCDB.

RESULTS

Of 533 patients meeting inclusion criteria, 276 (51.8%) patients underwent open, and 257 (48.2%) patients underwent endoscopic surgical approaches. Patients undergoing endoscopic surgery were more likely to be Kadish stages A and B and less likely to be stages C and D (P = .020). Those undergoing endoscopic approach overall had a shorter mean hospital stay postoperatively (3.8 vs. 7.0 days, P < .001). Endoscopic cases had a greater 5-year overall survival (81.9% vs. 75.6%, P = .030); after multivariate regression, there was a trend toward survival benefit to endoscopic surgery that did not reach clinical significance (HR 0.644, [0.392-1.058], P = .083).

CONCLUSION

Although not statistically significant, there is a trend toward increased overall survival with an endoscopic approach in patients undergoing surgery for ENB as compared to an open approach, regardless of Kadish stage. An endoscopic approach is an adequate alternative to an open approach for the surgical treatment of ENB.

Sinonasal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Outcomes: Does Treatment at a High-Volume Center Confer Survival Benefit?

Objective

To determine whether treatment of sinonasal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) at a high-volume facility affects survival.

Study Design

Retrospective database analysis.

Setting

National Cancer Database (2004-2014).

Subjects and Methods

The National Cancer Database was queried for sinonasal SCC from 2004 to 2014. Patient demographics, tumor characteristics and classification, resection margins, treatment regimen, and facility case-specific volume—averaged per year and grouped in tertiles as low (0%-33%), medium (34%-66%), and high (67%-100%)—were compared. Overall survival was compared with Cox proportional hazards regression analysis.

Results

A total of 3835 patients treated for sinonasal SCC between 2004 and 2014 were identified. Therapeutic options included surgery alone (18.6%), radiotherapy (RT) alone (29.1%), definitive chemoradiation (15.4%), surgery with adjuvant RT (22.8%), and combinations (14.1%) of the aforementioned treatments. Patients who underwent surgery with adjuvant RT had better overall survival (hazard ratio [HR], 0.74; P < .001; 95% CI, 0.63-0.86). As for treatment volume per facility, 7.4% of patients were treated at a low-volume center, 17.5% at a medium-volume center, and 75.1% at a high-volume center. Univariate analysis showed that treatment at a high-volume facility conferred a significantly better overall survival (HR, 0.77; P = .002). Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression analysis, adjusting for age, sex, tumor classification, and treatment regimen, demonstrated that patients who underwent treatment at a high-volume facility (HR, 0.81; P < .001) had significantly improved survival.

Conclusion

This study shows a better overall survival for sinonasal SCC treated at high-volume centers. Further study may be needed to understand the effect of case volume on the paradigms of sinonasal SCC management.

ICAR: endoscopic skull-base surgery

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic skull-base surgery (ESBS) is employed in the management of diverse skull-base pathologies. Paralleling the increased utilization of ESBS, the literature in this field has expanded rapidly. However, the rarity of these diseases, the inherent challenges of surgical studies, and the continued learning curve in ESBS have resulted in significant variability in the quality of the literature. To consolidate and critically appraise the available literature, experts in skull-base surgery have produced the International Consensus Statement on Endoscopic Skull-Base Surgery (ICAR:ESBS).

METHODS

Using previously described methodology, topics spanning the breadth of ESBS were identified and assigned a literature review, evidence-based review or evidence-based review with recommendations format. Subsequently, each topic was written and then reviewed by skull-base surgeons in both neurosurgery and otolaryngology. Following this iterative review process, the ICAR:ESBS document was synthesized and reviewed by all authors for consensus.

RESULTS

The ICAR:ESBS document addresses the role of ESBS in primary cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhea, intradural tumors, benign skull-base and orbital pathology, sinonasal malignancies, and clival lesions. Additionally, specific challenges in ESBS including endoscopic reconstruction and complication management were evaluated.

CONCLUSION

A critical review of the literature in ESBS demonstrates at least the equivalency of ESBS with alternative approaches in pathologies such as CSF rhinorrhea and pituitary adenoma as well as improved reconstructive techniques in reducing CSF leaks. Evidence-based recommendations are limited in other pathologies and these significant knowledge gaps call upon the skull-base community to embrace these opportunities and collaboratively address these shortcomings.

Multimodal Therapy for Sinonasal Malignancies: Updates and Review of Current Treatment

OPINION STATEMENT

Sinonasal malignancies pose a significant challenge in management due to their low incidence, biologic diversity, and significant symptom burden. Even though surgery remains the primary therapeutic modality, a multi-modality approach has been shown to benefit a significant proportion of patients and its success depends largely on stage and histologic type. Non-surgical approaches such as novel radiation approaches as well as intensification with systemic therapy hold promise in altering the organ preservation rate as well as overall survival for patients. Practice changing randomized trials to test these novel modalities are overdue and desperately needed.

Management of advanced adenoid cystic carcinoma infiltrating the skull base: a contemporary review

INTRODUCTION

This article provides an overview of the natural history and management of adenoid cystic carcinoma infiltrating the skull base (SB ACC).

METHODS

A comprehensive review of the available literature and discussion regarding the current management of SB ACC.

RESULTS

This review describes the unique pathology, appropriate diagnostic work-up and contemporary management options in SB ACC. There is a specific focus on the role of surgical resection with post-operative radiotherapy, given the literature suggesting a superior locoregional control rate. The importance of surgical decision making and varying surgical approaches are detailed. In addition, the emerging role of biological agents is discussed.

CONCLUSION

The gold standard for SB ACC is surgical resection and post-operative radiation, given the superior locoregional control. In patients not amendable to surgery, palliative radiation should be considered. The role of biological agents is still evolving. The complexity of SB ACC management mandates experienced multi-speciality management.

Endoscopic resection of sinonasal malignancies

BACKGROUND

In this study, we evaluate our experience and the outcomes of patients with sinonasal cancer treated with endoscopic resection.

METHODS

Retrospective review of patients with sinonasal cancer who had endoscopic resection was conducted. The outcomes of interest included survival outcomes and surgical complications.

RESULTS

Overall, 239 patients were included. Median follow up time was 46.6 months. Of the 239 patients, 167 (70%) had a pure endonasal endoscopic approach, while 72 (30%) had an endoscopic-assisted approach. Postoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage occurred in 14 patients (5.9%). Negative margins were achieved in 209 patients (87.4%). There was no significant difference in the margin status between the pure endoscopic and endoscopic-assisted group (P = .682). There was no significant difference in the survival outcomes between both the groups.

CONCLUSION

Our data suggest that in properly selected patients, endoscopic approaches have acceptable morbidity with low complication rates and can provide an oncologically sound alterative to open approaches.

Impact of endoscopic craniofacial resection on simulated nasal airflow and heat transport

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic craniofacial resections (CFR) are performed for extensive anterior skull base lesions. This surgery involves removal of multiple intranasal structures, potentially leading to empty nose syndrome (ENS). However, many patients remain asymptomatic postoperatively. Our objective was to analyze the impact of CFR on nasal physiology and airflow using computational fluid dynamics (CFD). This is the first CFD analysis of post-CFR patients.

METHODS

Three-dimensional sinonasal models were constructed from 3 postoperative images using Mimics^TM . Hybrid computational meshes were created. Steady inspiratory airflow and heat transport were simulated at patient-specific flow rates using shear stress transport k-omega turbulent flow modeling in Fluent^TM . Simulated average heat flux (HF) and surface area where HF exceeded 50 W/m² (SAHF50) were compared with laminar simulations in 9 radiographically normal adults.

RESULTS

Three adults underwent CFR without developing ENS. Average HF (W/m² ) were 132.70, 134.84, and 142.60 in the CFR group, ranging from 156.24 to 234.95 in the nonoperative cohort. SAHF50 (m² ) values were 0.0087, 0.0120, and 0.0110 in the CFR group, ranging from 0.0082 to 0.0114 in the radiographically normal cohort. SAHF50 was distributed throughout the CFR cavities, with increased HF at the roof and walls compared with the nonoperative cohort.

CONCLUSION

Average HF was low in the CFR group compared with the nonoperative group. However, absence of ENS in most CFR patients may be due to large stimulated mucosal surface area, commensurate with the nonoperative cohort. Diffuse distribution of stimulated area may result from turbulent mixing after CFR. To better understand heat transport post-CFR, a larger cohort is necessary.

Sinonasal malignancies: Endoscopic treatment outcomes

Sinonasal malignancies are rare and heterogeneous cancers located adjacent to critical neurovascular structures. Proximity to the orbit, brain, cranial nerves, and carotid arteries make surgical resection technically challenging and potentially morbid. The gold standard surgical procedure for these cancers has traditionally been the open craniofacial resection. Endoscopic endonasal approaches emerged in the last two decades as a viable alternative for carefully selected patients. The rarity and heterogeneity of the cancers precludes randomized controlled trials. Evidence for surgical approaches is based on case series and multi‐analyses. Current evidence demonstrates that endoscopic approaches do not compromise survival and have lower complication rates. This article provides an update of the current literature examining outcomes for the endoscopic treatment of sinonasal malignancies.

Lessons learned in the evolution of endoscopic skull base surgery

OBJECTIVEEndoscopic skull base surgery (ESBS) is a relatively recent addition to the neurosurgical armamentarium. As with many new approaches, there has been significant controversy regarding its value compared with more traditional approaches to ventral skull base pathology. Although early enthusiasm for new approaches that appear less invasive is usually high, these new techniques require rigorous study to ensure that widespread implementation is in the best interest of patients.METHODSThe authors compared surgical results for ESBS with transcranial surgery (TCS) for several different pathologies over two different time periods (prior to 2012 and 2012-2017) to see how results have evolved over time. Pathologies examined were craniopharyngioma, anterior skull base meningioma, esthesioneuroblastoma, chordoma, and chondrosarcoma.RESULTSESBS offers clear advantages over TCS for most craniopharyngiomas and chordomas. For well-selected cases of planum sphenoidale and tuberculum sellae meningiomas, ESBS has similar rates of resection with higher rates of visual improvement, and more recent results with lower CSF leaks make the complication rates similar between the two approaches. TCS offers a higher rate of resection with fewer complications for olfactory groove meningiomas. ESBS is preferred for lower-grade esthesioneuroblastomas, but higher-grade tumors often still require a craniofacial approach. There are few data on chondrosarcomas, but early results show that ESBS appears to offer clear advantages for minimizing morbidity with similar rates of resection, as long as surgeons are familiar with more complex inferolateral approaches.CONCLUSIONSESBS is maturing into a well-established approach that is clearly in the patients' best interest when applied by experienced surgeons for appropriate pathology. Ongoing critical reevaluation of outcomes is essential for ensuring optimal results.

Open Versus Endoscopic Approach for Sinonasal Melanoma: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background

Open resection (OR) of sinonasal mucosal melanoma (SNM) traditionally has been the gold standard for treatment. However, endoscopic resection (ER) has recently become a surgical alternative. The aim of this study was to compare survival outcomes between OR and ER of SNM.

Methods

A literature search encompassing PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, ClinicalTrials.gov, and Google Scholar was performed. Two reviewers independently screened for original studies comparing survival outcomes between OR and ER for SNM. Data were systematically collected on study design, patient demographics, outcomes, and level of evidence. Quality assessment was performed using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale (NOS). Meta-analysis of overall survival and disease-free survival was performed using random-effects models.

Results

The initial search yielded 2078 abstracts, of which 9 cohort studies were included for a total of 510 patients from 6 different countries. The average quality of all included studies using the NOS was 7.7 stars. Six out of 7 studies reported no differences in the stages of SNM between patients receiving ER versus OR. Overall survival was longer in the ER group versus OR group (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.68, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.49–0.95). There was no significant difference in disease-free survival between groups (HR: 0.59, 95% CI: 0.28–1.25).

Conclusion

Based on the available literature, an endoscopic approach for SNM resection has survival outcomes that are similar or greater compared to an open approach.

Long-term Outcome for Open and Endoscopically Resected Sinonasal Tumors

Objective

Endoscopic resection of sinonasal cancer has become an alternative to open craniofacial surgery and leads to safe and satisfying results in emerging numbers. Randomized study data comparing outcomes between approaches are missing. Hence, it remains unclear which subgroups of patients might profit most from each technique. We aimed to identify such patient and tumor characteristics and gather information for future prospective study design.

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

Tertiary academic center.

Subjects and Methods

This study is based on a retrospective chart review of 225 patients undergoing open craniofacial or endoscopic resection for sinonasal malignancy between 1993 and 2015 at Munich University Hospital. Statistical analyses include t test, chi-square, Kaplan-Meier charts, and univariate and multivariate analyses.

Results

The sample size was similar between the endoscopic and open surgery groups. Tumors were significantly larger in patients who underwent open craniofacial resection. The risk of notable bleeding ( P = .041) was lower and hospital stay shorter ( P = .001) for endoscopic interventions of all tumor stages. Rates of overall ( P = .024) and disease-specific ( P = .036) survival were significantly improved for endoscopic cases; improved recurrence-free survival rates did not achieve statistical significance ( P = .357). For cases matched for tumor size, this improvement was confirmed for T3 tumors ( P = .038). Regional and distant metastatic tumor spread generally worsened survival in both surgical subgroups. Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed independent prognosticators for overall survival.

Conclusion

Endoscopic tumor resection remains a suitable option for distinct indications and showed improved outcome in intermediate-stage tumors in our collective. Further randomized studies acknowledging the here-identified factors are needed to improve future therapy guidelines and patient care.

Craniofacial resection of malignant tumors of the anterior skull base: a case series and a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Craniofacial resection (CFR) is still considered as the gold standard for managing sinonasal malignancies of the anterior skull base (ASB), while endoscopic approaches are gaining credibility. The goal of this study was to evaluate outcomes of patients who underwent CFR at our institution and to compare our results to international literature.

METHOD

Retrospective analysis of all patients undergoing CFR between 1995 and 2017, and systematic literature review according to the PRISMA statement.

RESULTS

Forty-one patients with sinonasal malignancy (81% with stage T4) of the ASB were included. There was no operative mortality. Complications were observed in 9 cases. We obtained 100% follow-up with mean observation of 100 months. Disease-specific survival rates were 90%, 74%, and 62% and recurrence-free survival was 85% at two, 72% at five, and 10 years follow-up, respectively. CFR as primary treatment, en bloc resection, and resection with negative margins correlated to better survival. Recursive partition analysis identified the latter as the most important prognostic factor, regardless of surgical technique. The relative risk of non-radicality was significantly higher after piecemeal resection compared to en bloc resection. Compared to 15 original articles, totaling 2603 patients, eligible for review, the present study has the longest follow-up time, the second highest 5-year OS, and the third highest 5-year DSS, despite having a higher proportion of patients with high-stage disease.

CONCLUSION

CFR in true en bloc fashion can still be considered as the treatment of choice in cases of advanced-stage sinonasal malignancies invading the ASB.

Sinonasal Quality of Life Outcomes After Extended Endonasal Approaches to the Skull Base

Introduction  Endoscopic endonasal skull base surgery (EESBS) leads to significant alterations in sinonasal anatomy and physiology. However, there is limited data available on quality of life (QOL) outcomes following EESBS. Methods  A retrospective review of patients undergoing EESBS from January 2014 to April 2017 was performed. Records were reviewed for clinical history, operative details, and 22-item Sinonasal Outcomes Test (SNOT-22) scores. Unadjusted and adjusted linear regression models were utilized to compare change in SNOT-22 scores from baseline in patients who underwent a simple sella approach (SA) or an extended beyond sella approach (BSA). Results  A total of 108 patients were in the SA group, while 61 patients were in the BSA group. SNOT-22 scores were available at baseline and 3 months for 84 patients, while 6-month scores were available for 49 patients. SNOT-22 scores for all patients were not significantly different at 3 months ( p  = 0.40) or at 6 months ( p  = 0.58). Unadjusted linear regression model did not show an association between the type of approach and change in SNOT-22 score at 3 months ( p  = 0.07) and 6 months ( p  = 0.28). Adjusted regression model showed a significant decrease in SNOT-22 scores at 3 months ( p  = 0.04) for the BSA group, but there was no significant change in SNOT-22 score at 6 months ( p  = 0.22). Conclusion  Patients undergoing EESBS had no significant change in outcomes at 3 and 6 months. A more extensive BSA was not associated with worse QOL outcomes as measured by SNOT-22.

Endoscopic Resection Followed by Proton Therapy With Pencil Beam Scanning for Skull Base Tumors

For patients who require postoperative radiotherapy after endoscopic resection of skull base tumors, proton therapy with pencil beam scanning (PBS) may allow sparing of normal tissue compared to intensity-modulated photon radiation (IMRT). We compared PBS and IMRT radiation plans in the preoperative and postoperative settings for two patients with advanced skull base tumors following endoscopic resection. The benefits of PBS over IMRT appear greater in the postoperative setting following endoscopic resection with improved sparing of critical organs at risk. The multidisciplinary approach of endoscopic resection followed by PBS represents a treatment paradigm with potential for improvements in toxicity reduction. Laryngoscope, 129:1313-1317, 2019.

AHNS Series: Do you know your guidelines? Principles for treatment of cancer of the paranasal sinuses: A review of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines

This article is a continuation of the "Do You Know Your Guidelines" series. This was launched as an initiative of the American Head and Neck Society to increase the awareness of current best practices pertaining to head and neck cancer. The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines for managing cancer of the paranasal sinuses are reviewed in a systematic fashion. These guidelines outline the workup, treatment, and surveillance of patients with cancer of the maxillary and ethmoid sinuses.

Results of preoperative chemoradiotherapy for patients with advanced cancer of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses

OBJECTIVES

Curative treatment of nasal cavity and paranasal sinus cancer is challenging due to the proximity to critical anatomical structures. The purpose of this study was to analyze the impact of trimodality therapy with preoperative chemotherapy and reduced-dose radiotherapy followed by organ-preserving surgery for treating patients with nasal cavity and paranasal sinus cancer.

METHODS

This retrospective study included all 156 patients diagnosed with sinonasal cancer in western Sweden between 1986 and 2009. We determined the treatment selection pattern and treatment outcomes for 79 patients treated with preoperative chemoradiotherapy.

RESULTS

Squamous cell carcinoma was the most common histology. The five-year overall survival was 54%, and 85% of these patients had T3 or T4 tumors. The five-year cumulative incidence rate of local recurrence was 32%. The five-year overall survival in patients with squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma was 45% and 76%, respectively. The median preoperative radiation dose was 48 Gy. Orbital exenteration was performed in 7% of patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative chemoradiotherapy may be beneficial for patients with advanced sinonasal cancer when primary radical surgery is challenging. Survival outcomes were comparable to outcomes reported in the literature despite conservative surgery and relatively low radiation doses in patients with locally advanced tumors.

Paranasal sinuses malignancies: A 12-year review of clinical characteristics

Background

Inadequate epidemiologic investigations of the paranasal sinuses malignancies prompted this retrospective study with special emphasis on a major group of 111 tumors.

Material and Methods

Clinical records of 111 patients with histologically confirmed malignant tumors of the paranasal sinuses were investigated retrospectively from April 2000 to January 2012. Collection of data included demographic information, clinical manifestations, treatment plans, and histopathology of the tumor.

Results

There were 69 (62.16%) male and 42 (37.83%) female patients (male-to-female ratio of 1.6:1), with a median age of 49±12.2 years (range 21 to 88 years). A high level of occurrence was noticed in the fifth (26.3%) decade of life. The most frequent histological types were squamous cell carcinoma (43.5%) and adenoid cystic carcinoma (19%). Among clinical manifestations, nasal obstruction was the most frequent followed by diplopia, and facial swelling. Fifty three patients (47.74%) were treated with combined approach of surgery and radiation therapy.

Conclusions

Paranasal sinuses malignancies are rare conditions with nonspecific symptoms which make early diagnosis of the lesions more challenging. The optimal therapeutic protocol for patients suffering from these tumors is still a somewhat controversial entity and requires further studies.

Key words:Paranasal sinuses, malignancy, surgery,radiotherapy.

Endoscopic Resection of Sinonasal Malignancy

Objectives

The use of endoscopic approaches for sinonasal malignancy resection has increased, but survival data are limited secondary to disease rarity and new surgical technique. Here we present a systematic review and meta-analysis of endoscopic endonasal resection of sinonasal malignancy.

Data Sources

MEDLINE, PubMed Central, NCBI Bookshelf, Cochrane Library, clinicaltrials.gov, National Guideline Clearinghouse.

Review Methods

PRISMA/MOOSE guidelines were followed. MeSH terms were “endoscopic” AND (“esthesioneuroblastoma” OR “sinonasal adenocarcinoma” OR “squamous cell carcinoma” OR “sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma”). For studies in which individual-level data were available, results were obtained by direct pooling. For studies in which only summary Kaplan-Meier curves were available, numerical data were extracted, traced, and aggregated by fitting a Weibull model.

Results

Of 320 studies identified, 35 case series were included (n = 952 patients), with 15 studies analyzed via aggregate modeling and 20 studies analyzed via direct pooling. Two- and 5-year survival rates for patients in aggregate modeling were 87.5% and 72.3%, respectively (mean follow-up: 32.9 months). Two- and 5-year survival for patients in direct pooling were 85.8% and 83.5%, respectively (mean follow-up: 43.0 ± 19.5 months). Significant overall survival difference was found between low- and high-grade cancers ( P = .015) but not between low- and high-stage cancers ( P = .79).

Conclusion

Overall 2- and 5-year survival rates are comparable and sometimes greater than those from open craniofacial resection. Survival rates significantly differ by cancer grade but not stage. Journals and investigators should be encouraged to publish retrospective and prospective case series with staged survival updates based on established guidelines.

Endonasal Endoscopic Surgery in the Management of Sinonasal and Anterior Skull Base Malignancies

Sinonasal malignancies represent a rare subset of tumors with a wide variety of histopathologic diagnoses and overall poor prognosis. These tumors tend to have an insidious onset with non-specific symptoms which often leads to delayed diagnosis and advanced local disease at presentation. The principal goal of surgery is to obtain a negative margin resection. Open craniofacial techniques are well established in the management of sinonasal malignancies and remain the treatment of choice for many advanced tumors. Over the past couple of decades, there has been tremendous application of endoscopic techniques to skull base pathologies including sinonasal malignancies. For selected cases, endonasal endoscopic techniques can be performed with curative intent and reduced surgical morbidity and mortality. Here we discuss principles of surgical management of sinonasal malignancies, review the techniques of endonasal endoscopic resection of sinonasal malignancies, and highlight the importance of pathology in the multi-disciplinary management of patients with these complex lesions.

Advantage of Extended Craniofacial Resection for Advanced Malignant Tumors of the Nasal Cavity and Paranasal Sinuses: Long-Term Outcome and Surgical Management

OBJECTIVE

Craniofacial resection (CFR) for advanced sinonasal malignant tumors (SNMTs) is mandatory for radical resection. Surgeons must be aware of perioperative complications and long-term outcome because this procedure is extremely invasive, especially when the tumor involves the anterior skull base.

METHODS

Thirty-eight consecutive surgical patients with advanced SNMT of T4 stage or Kadish stage C (31 men and 7 women; mean age, 55 years; range: 19-76 years) treated with CFR in the past 28 years were followed up for 59.4 months. In cases of unilateral orbital extension, en-bloc resection was achieved using several neurosurgical techniques (extended CFR) from 2005 onwards. Herein, we evaluated the safety and effectiveness of surgery by comparing survival data between 2 time periods (first stage: 1984-2004, second stage: 2005-2012).

RESULTS

Squamous cell carcinoma was the most common histological type observed (65.8%), followed by esthesioneuroblastoma (15.8%). Using a combination of adjuvant radiation therapy, the 5-year overall survival and the 5-year disease-specific survival rates were 55.5% and 59.4%, respectively. Sarcomatous histology was a poor prognostic factor. The 5-year disease-specific survival rate was 48.9% in the first stage and improved to 82.1% in the second stage (P = 0.057); this was related to improvements in local control rate.

CONCLUSIONS

CFR and postoperative radiotherapy are safe and effective for treating advanced SNMTs. Extended CFR, including radical orbital exenteration, may contribute to good long-term outcomes. A diverse surgical team may help perform radical resection and reconstruction in patients with advanced tumors.

Comprehensive review on endonasal endoscopic sinus surgery

Endonasal endoscopic sinus surgery is the standard procedure for surgery of most paranasal sinus diseases. Appropriate frame conditions provided, the respective procedures are safe and successful. These prerequisites encompass appropriate technical equipment, anatomical oriented surgical technique, proper patient selection, and individually adapted extent of surgery. The range of endonasal sinus operations has dramatically increased during the last 20 years and reaches from partial uncinectomy to pansinus surgery with extended surgery of the frontal (Draf type III), maxillary (grade 3-4, medial maxillectomy, prelacrimal approach) and sphenoid sinus. In addition there are operations outside and beyond the paranasal sinuses. The development of surgical technique is still constantly evolving. This article gives a comprehensive review on the most recent state of the art in endoscopic sinus surgery according to the literature with the following aspects: principles and fundamentals, surgical techniques, indications, outcome, postoperative care, nasal packing and stents, technical equipment.

Skull Base Surgery Training and Practice Patterns among Recent Otolaryngology Fellowship Graduates

OBJECTIVE

To collect data on skull base surgery training experiences and practice patterns of otolaryngologists that recently completed fellowship training.

DESIGN

A 24-item survey was disseminated to physicians who completed otolaryngology fellowships in rhinology, head and neck oncology, or neurotology between 2010 and 2014.

RESULTS

During a typical year, 50% of rhinologists performed more than 20 endoscopic anterior skull base cases, 83% performed fewer than 20 open cases, and were more confident performing advanced transplanum (p = 0.02) and transclival (p = 0.03) endoscopic approaches than head and neck surgeons. Head and neck surgeons performed fewer than 20 endoscopic and fewer than 20 open cases in 100% of respondents and were more confident with open approaches than rhinologists (p = 0.02). Neurotologists performed more than 20 lateral skull base cases in 45% of respondents during a typical year, fewer than 20 endoscopic ear cases in 95%, and were very comfortable performing lateral skull base approaches.

CONCLUSION

Many recent otolaryngology fellowship graduates are integrating skull base surgery into their practices. Respondents reported high confidence levels performing a range of cranial base approaches. Exposure to endoscopic ear techniques is minimal in neurotology training, and rhinology training appears to offer increased exposure to skull base surgery compared with head and neck training.

Surgical Techniques for Sinonasal Malignancies

Sinonasal malignancies are a rare subset of malignancies of the upper aerodigestive tract which had been traditionally approached via open techniques. This article primarily addresses a paradigm shift in endoscopic endonasal oncological resection utilizing principles of tumor disassembly and negative margins. The surgical steps to these endoscopic techniques are detailed, emphasizing principles of sound oncological resection.

Synchronous esthesioneuroblastoma and growth-hormone-secreting pituitary macroadenoma: combined open and endoscopic management

Background Esthesioneuroblastoma is an uncommon malignant neoplasm that arises from the olfactory neuroepithelium. In this article we report a case of esthesioneuroblastoma presenting concomitantly with a growth-hormone (GH)-secreting pituitary macroadenoma. Results A 52 year old woman underwent surgery for suspected nasal polyps. Intralesional debulking of an intranasal tumor disclosed a low-grade esthesioneuroblastoma. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrated a large nasal and intracranial tumor, in addition to a separate sellar and suprasellar tumor. The patient was frankly acromegalic. She underwent a first-stage gross total resection of the esthesioneuroblastoma via a combined extended subfrontal and extended endonasal approach, followed by focused radiation therapy. She then returned for endoscopic removal of the GH-secreting pituitary macroadenoma. Conclusion The combined open and endoscopic management of this patient is described and a review of the literature presented. To our knowledge this is the first case of synchronous esthesioneuroblastoma and macroadenoma, in this case GH secreting, described in the literature.

Sinonasal carcinoma: clinical, pathological, genetic and therapeutic advances

The sinonasal cavities represent an anatomical region affected by a variety of tumours with clinical, aetiological, pathological, and genetic features distinct from tumours at the main head and neck cancer localizations. Together, squamous-cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma account for 80% of all sinonasal tumours, and are aetiologically associated with professional exposure to wood and leather dust particles and other industrial compounds, and therefore, are officially recognized as an occupational disease. Owing to their distinctive characteristics, sinonasal tumours should be considered as separate entities, not to be included in the miscellany of head and neck cancers. Sinonasal tumours are rare, with an annual incidence of approximately 1 case per 100,000 inhabitants worldwide, a fact that has hampered molecular-genetic studies of the tumorigenic pathways and the testing of alternative treatment strategies. Nevertheless, the clinical management of sinonasal cancer has improved owing to advances in imaging techniques, endoscopic surgical approaches, and radiotherapy. Genetic profiling and the development of in vitro cell lines and animal models currently form the basis for future targeted anticancer therapies. We review these advances in our understanding and treatment of sinonasal tumours.

Endoscopic nonembolized resection of an extensive sinonasal cavernous hemangioma: A case report and literature review

Sinonasal hemangiomas, although rare, must be considered in the evaluation of intranasal masses with profuse epistaxis. Although the availability of literature discussing cavernous hemangiomas in this location is limited, there have been no case reports of exclusively soft tissue sinonasal cavernous hemangiomas extending to the anterior skull base (ASB) that were resected purely endoscopically. Here, we describe the successful endoscopic resection of an extensive right sinonasal cavernous hemangioma extending to but not invading the ASB. Although highly vascular, in select cases, these tumors can be successfully resected endoscopically without embolization by experienced endoscopic sinus and skull base surgeons.