Significant Underreporting of Preoperative Hyposmia in Patients Undergoing Endoscopic Skull Base Surgery: Discrepancies Between Subjective and Objective Measurements

Objective  The assessment of baseline olfactory function before endoscopic skull base surgery (ESBS) has been relatively limited compared with analysis before functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS). Our study addresses this knowledge gap, assessing preoperative olfactory function in ESBS and FESS and elucidating any differences. Study Design  We conducted a retrospective review of patients undergoing anterior ESBS or FESS at a single institution between 2021 and 2022. We included 171 patients and compared their reported and measured preoperative olfactory function using the Sino-Nasal Outcome Test questionnaire and the 40-item University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test. Results  Of the 171 patients included in this study, 30% of patients underwent ESBS and 70% underwent FESS. Of all patients, only 57% correctly reported their objective preoperative olfactory function. Of the 36 ESBS patients with measured preoperative hyposmia, only 31% correctly reported hyposmia, while 69% incorrectly reported normosmia. This distribution significantly differs ( p  < 0.0001) from the FESS subset (89 patients), with 64% correctly reporting hyposmia and 36% incorrectly reporting normosmia. Conclusion  Our analysis demonstrates higher than anticipated underreporting of preoperative hyposmia in patients undergoing ESBS as well as discrepancies between subjective and objective olfactory functions in the FESS population. The results highlight several gaps in knowledge regarding perioperative olfactory function that would be best examined with more thorough pre- and postoperative objective olfactory testing. This analysis demonstrates significant prognostic uncertainty for patients and providers and creates significant medicolegal uncertainty regarding the appropriate attribution of postoperative olfactory loss in cases without objective preoperative testing.

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.

The impact of obesity on rates of post-operative CSF leak following endoscopic skull base surgery: results from a prospective international multi-centre cohort study

Aims

Post-operative CSF leak is the major source of morbidity following transsphenoidal approaches (TSA) and expanded endonasal approaches (EEA) to lesions of the sella turcica and the ventral skull base. There are conflicting reports in the literature as to whether obesity (BMI ≥30) is a risk factor for this complication. We aimed to evaluate data collected as part of prospective multi-centre cohort study to address this question.

Methods

The CRANIAL (CSF Rhinorrhoea After Endonasal Intervention to the Skull Base) study database was reviewed and patients were divided into obese and non-obese cohorts. Data on patient demographics, underlying pathology, intra-operative findings and skull base repair techniques were analysed.

Results

TSA were performed on 726 patients, of whom 210 were obese and 516 were non-obese. The rate of post-operative CSF leak in the obese cohort was 11/210 (5%), compared to 17/516 (3%) in the non-obese cohort, which was not statistically significant (χ2 = 1.520, p=0.217). EEA were performed on 140 patients, of whom 28 were obese and 112 were non-obese. The rate of post-operative CSF leak in the obese cohort was 2/28 (7%), which was identical to the rate observed in the non-obese cohort 8/112 (7%) Fisher's Exact Test, p=1.000). These results persisted following adjustment for inter-institutional variation and baseline risk of post-operative CSF leak.

Conclusion

CSF leak rates following TSA and EEA, in association with modern skull base repair techniques, were found to be low in both obese and non-obese patients. However, due to the low rate of post-operative CSF leak, we were unable to fully exclude a small contributory effect of obesity to the risk of this complication.

Combined simultaneous endoscopic endonasal and transcranial surgery using high-definition three-dimensional exoscope for malignant tumors of the anterior skull base

BACKGROUND

Advanced surgical interventions are required to treat malignancies in the anterior skull base (ASB). This study investigates the utility of endoscopic endonasal and transcranial surgery (EETS) using a high-definition three-dimensional exoscope as an alternative to traditional microscopy.

METHODS

Six patients with carcinomas of varying histopathologies underwent surgery employing the EETS maneuver, which synchronized three distinct surgical modalities: harvesting of the anterolateral thigh flap, initiation of the transnasal technique, and initiation of the transcranial procedure.

RESULTS

The innovative strategy enabled successful tumor resection and skull base reconstruction without postoperative local neoplastic recurrence, cerebrospinal fluid leakage, or neurological deficits.

CONCLUSION

The integration of the exoscope and EETS is a novel therapeutic approach for ASB malignancies. This strategy demonstrates the potential of the exoscope in augmenting surgical visualization, enhancing ergonomics, and achieving seamless alignment of multiple surgical interventions. This technique represents a progressive shift in the management of these complex oncological challenges.

[Endoscopic endonasal anterior skull base surgery : Presentation of a monocentric entity profile]

BACKGROUND

Extended endoscopic endonasal surgery (EEES) is an essential part of treatment of various pathologies of the anterior skull base. In addition to significant improvements in the quality of life of affected patients and a lower complication profile compared to open skull base surgery, the therapeutic results are comparable if the indications are correct.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data of all endoscopic endonasal skull base procedures performed at the University Skull Base Center Hamburg under the direction of the Department of Otorhinolaryngology between June 2018 and November 2022 were retrospectively collected.

RESULTS

A total of 50 cases were identified. Of these, 56% (28/50) were malignant tumors, 24% (12/50) were benign pathologies with direct skull base involvement, and 20% (10/50) were anterior skull base defects with rhinoliquorrhea. In 96% (48/50) of cases, the preoperatively set goal of surgery (representative biopsy, complete resection, closure of the skull base defect) could be achieved. Complications grade III or higher according to Clavien-Dindo occurred in 4/50 cases. During the observation period, n = 5 olfactory neuroblastomas were diagnosed, all of which were exclusively and successfully operated on endoscopically.

CONCLUSION

In recent years, the spectrum of endoscopically resectable pathologies of the anterior skull base has steadily expanded. In particular, midline-related tumors such as olfactory neuroblastoma or iatrogenic/idiopathic skull base defects with cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea are treated completely endoscopically with very good results. Nevertheless, there are also limitations to this technique. Due to high variance in the scope of frontobasal surgery, the extent, and the complex anatomy, as well as the overlapping responsibilities of the specialist disciplines, establishment of certified skull base centers and bundling of frontobasal surgery at these centers is highly relevant for quality assurance.

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.

Endoscopic trans-sphenoidal pituitary surgery does not impact postoperative nasal quality of life

PURPOSE

The aim of this prospective longitudinal study was to assess both subjective quality of life using questionnaires and objective examination of nasal function with regard to olfaction, nasal air flow and mucociliary clearance in patients after minimally invasive, turbinate-preserving endoscopic transnasal trans-sphenoidal pituitary surgery.

METHODS

Patients undergoing endoscopic transnasal pituitary surgery were recruited prospectively and examined during three study visits, preoperatively and 3 and 6 months postoperatively. We examined nasal function using sniffin' sticks test, rhinomanometry, saccharin transit time test, and endoscopic and radiological scores. In addition, the influence on subjective quality of life and mental health was recorded using the Sinonasal-Outcome-Test-20 (SNOT-20) and the Hospital-Anxiety-and-Depression-Scale (HADS).

RESULTS

20 patients undergoing endoscopic pituitary tumor resections were included. No significant changes in olfaction or mucociliary clearance were noted. Nasal air flow showed a tendency to increase in the postoperative course lacking significance. Both the endoscopy and the radiological scores showed a significant deterioration, especially after 3 months, with a trend towards improvement over time. However, neither the SNOT-20 nor the HADS showed significant changes compared to baseline.

CONCLUSIONS

Our concept of minimally invasive endoscopic tumor resections on the pituitary gland with preservation of nasal turbinates shows low morbidity for the patient. Despite objectifiable surgery-associated changes in the nose, nasal physiology in terms of smell, airflow and mucociliary clearance can be preserved and the subjective quality of life of our patients remains stable.

Postoperative mometasone irrigations improve quality of life in skull base tumor patients

Objectives

The use of topical corticosteroids to manage postoperative sinonasal symptoms after endoscopic skull base surgery (ESBS) has not been well studied. We quantified long-term impact of postoperative steroid irrigations (SIs) on quality of life of patients after ESBS.

Methods

Retrospective review of patients at the University of Pennsylvania undergoing ESBS from 2010 to 2019. Data on patient demographics and postoperative treatment with nasal saline irrigation twice daily with and without dissolved steroids (mometasone or budesonide) was collected. Preoperative, and 1-, 3-, 6-, 12-, 18-, and 24-month postoperative Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22) scores were assessed.

Results

A total of 727 patients were assessed (53.4% males), with 479 patients in the no SI group and 248 patients in the SI group. Preoperative SNOT-22 scores did not differ significantly (P = 0.19). 1-, 3-, 6-, 12-, 18-, and 24-month post-op SNOT-22 scores did not significantly differ between groups. However, mometasone irrigations resulted in significantly lower postoperative 2-year SNOT-22 scores compared to budesonide (P < 0.01) and saline (P = 0.03).

Conclusions

Though corticosteroid irrigations are routine in managing inflammatory sinus disease, their role in postoperative management after ESBS for tumors is unclear. Our findings suggest that mometasone irrigation may be effective at improving postoperative quality of life in patients after ESBS.

Radiographic predictors of occult intracranial involvement in olfactory neuroblastoma patients

BACKGROUND

Traditional management of olfactory neuroblastoma (ONB) includes margin-negative resection with removal of cribriform plate, dura, and olfactory bulb, regardless of intracranial disease. This approach may be overtreating certain patients. Our investigation examines risk factors associated with occult intracranial disease to optimize therapeutic outcomes.

METHODS

This retrospective, multi-institutional cohort study examined clinical covariates associated with occult intracranial involvement. Patient demographics, staging, Hyam's grade, and pathologic involvement of dura, olfactory bulb/tract, and brain were collected. Diagnostic imaging was reviewed. Positive and negative predictive value (NPV) were estimated along with effect size estimates. Cox hazard regression examined associations with overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS).

RESULTS

A total of 224 subjects with new diagnoses of ONB (2005-2021) were identified. Skull base bone involvement on computed tomography (CT) had the highest NPV for pathologic dura (88.0%), olfactory bulb (88%), and brain involvement (97.3%). Hyam's grade category was significantly associated with dural involvement (φC  = 0.26; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.16, 0.42). Subjects without radiologic skull base involvement (n = 66) had pathologic positivity of 12.1%. Within this subgroup, Hyam's grade was clinically significant for dural positivity (φ = 0.34; 95% CI: -0.12, 0.71) with 28.6% involvement in high grade tumors. Neither clinical nor pathologic positivity of intracranial structures were associated with significantly different OS or DFS.

CONCLUSIONS

Both CT and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) had reasonably good NPV for involvement of dura and olfactory bulb. Higher Hyam's grade was associated with dural involvement. Patients with low-grade tumors not involving the skull base may be suitable for avoiding skull base resection; however, further investigation is warranted.

Skull base reconstruction using in situ bone flap in patients with pituitary adenomas treated by endoscopic endonasal approach

Objective

The objective of this study is to study the effect of in situ bone flap (ISBF) repositioning, a recently proposed rigid skull base reconstruction technique, on patients diagnosed with pituitary adenoma undergoing endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA).

Method

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 188 patients with pituitary adenomas who underwent EEA from February 2018 to September 2022. Patients were divided into the ISBF group and non-ISBF group, according to whether ISBF was used during skull base reconstruction.

Results

Of the 75 patients in the non-ISBF group, 6 had postoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage (8%), while only 1 of 113 patients in the ISBF group (0.8%) had postoperative CSF leakage, indicating that the incidence of postoperative CSF leakage in the ISBF group was significantly lower than that in the non-ISBF group (P = 0.033). In addition, we also found that the postoperative hospitalization days of patients in the ISBF group (5.34 ± 1.24) were significantly less than those in the non-ISBF group (6.83 ± 1.91, P = 0.015).

Conclusion

ISBF repositioning is a safe, effective, and convenient rigid skull base reconstruction method for patients with pituitary adenoma treated by EEA, which can significantly reduce the rate of postoperative CSF leakage and shorten postoperative hospital stays.

Recent progress in endoscopic skull base surgery: Functional preservation and multiportal approaches

Over the past couple of decades, endoscopic skull base surgery (ESBS) has significantly evolved and is applied to a broad range of skull base pathologies, including sinonasal malignancies. Recent studies have demonstrated remarkable progress of ESBS in complete resection with low morbidity and extension of its application to larger and more complex lesions. In this review, we focus on the evolution of functional preservation and multiportal approaches. Progress in preoperative assessments and surgical techniques improved the preservation of olfactory function after ESBS. The technical feasibility of olfaction preservation even after resection of olfactory groove lesions has been reported. To overcome the limitations of extending use of the endoscopic endonasal approach in surgical fields, various types of multiportal approaches, including combinations of the endoscopic endonasal and transorbital, transmaxillary, or transoral approach, have been reported, as they are useful for complete resection of extensive pathologies while limiting morbidity. These innovative techniques are still in the process of maturation. Hence, an ongoing critical evaluation is essential to ensure efficacy.

Endoscopic Endonasal Skull Base Surgery Complication Avoidance: A Contemporary Review

The endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA) provides a direct trajectory to ventral skull base lesions, avoidance of brain retraction, and clear visualization of cranial nerves as they exit skull base foramina. Despite these benefits, the EEA is not without complications. Here, we review published literature highlighting complications associated with the EEA including cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak, cranial nerve (CN) dysfunction, pituitary gland dysfunction, internal carotid artery (ICA) injury, infection, and others; we place special emphasis on discussing the prevention of these complications. As widespread adoption of the EEA continues, it becomes critical to educate surgeons regarding potential complications and their prevention while identifying gaps in the current literature to guide future research and advances in clinical care.

Endoscopic Reconstruction of the Anterior Skull Base Following Tumor Resection: Application of a Novel Bioabsorbable Plate

OBJECTIVE

Endoscopic repair of skull base defects is required following resection of intracranial pathology via the endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA). Many closure techniques have been described, but choosing between techniques remains controversial. We report outcomes of 560 EEA procedures of skull base reconstruction performed on 508 patients over a 15-year-period. Halfway through this period, we adopted the use of a rigid, bioabsorbable extrasellar plate for reconstruction, enabling a comparison between this technique and those used previously.

METHODS

All patients undergoing EEA from 2005 to 2019 at our institution were retrospectively reviewed. Demographic information, surgical pathology, tumor dimensions and radiographic features, reconstructive technique, and patient-related outcomes were collected and analyzed with univariate and multivariate statistical modeling.

RESULTS

Five-hundred sixty procedures were performed on 508 patients. The series complication rate was 8.2%. Overall, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak rate was 5.0% but varied significantly across closure techniques (p < 0.001). Critically, the CSF leak rate in the 272 cases prior to our 2013 adoption of the Resorb-X Plate (RXP) was 8.5%, whereas leak rate in the subsequent 288 cases was 1.7%. RXP was protective against CSF leak (p = 0.001), whereas gross total resection (GTR) correlated with increased leak rate (p = 0.001). Patient BMI was significantly associated with risk of leak (p = 0.047). Other variables did not impact leak risk.

CONCLUSION

Reconstructive technique, extent of resection, and patient BMI significantly contributed to CSF leak rate. GTR was associated with increased leak risk while the RXP was protective. The bioabsorbable RXP is an effective option for rigid skull base repair with comparatively few complications.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3 Laryngoscope, 133:1092-1098, 2023.

Reconstructive Outcomes of Multilayered Closure of Large Skull Base Dural Defects Following Open Anterior Craniofacial Resection

Introduction Standardized reconstruction protocols for large open anterior skull base defects with dural resection are not well described. Here we report the outcomes and technique of a multilayered reconstructive algorithm utilizing local tissue, dural graft matrix, and microvascular free tissue transfer (MVFTT) for reconstruction of these deformities.

Design This study is a retrospective review.

Results Eleven patients (82% males) met inclusion criteria, with five (45%) having concurrent orbital exenteration and eight (73%) requiring maxillectomy. All patients required dural resection with or without intracranial tumor resection, with the average dural defect being 36.0 ± 25.9 cm2. Dural graft matrices and pericranial flaps were used for primary reconstruction of the dural defects, which were then reinforced with free fascia or muscle overlay by means of MVFTT. Eight (73%) patients underwent anterolateral thigh MVFTT, with the radial forearm, fibula, and vastus lateralis comprising the remainder. Average total surgical time of tumor resection and reconstruction was 14.9 ± 3.8 hours, with median length of hospitalization being 10 days (IQR: 9.5, 14). Continuous cerebrospinal fluid drainage through a lumber drain was utilized in 10 (91%) patients perioperatively, with an average length of indwelling drain of 5 days. Postoperative complications occurred in two (18%) patients who developed asymptomatic pneumocephalus that resolved with high-flow oxygen therapy.

Conclusion A standardized multilayered closure technique of dural graft matrix, pericranial flap, and MVFTT overlay in the reconstruction of large open anterior craniofacial dural defects can assist the reconstructive team in approaching these complex deformities and may help prevent postoperative complications.

Modified Endoscopic Denker's Approach for Management of Anterior Maxillary Sinus Tumors: Multicenter Series of 58 Cases

OBJECTIVES

Tumors involving the anterior portion of the maxillary sinus remain technically challenging to access via an endoscopic approach. The modified endoscopic Denker's (MED) procedure was recently introduced to address such lesions. We present a multicenter series of 58 patients with tumors involving the anterior maxillary sinus successfully resected using a MED procedure and present the clinical outcomes and complications.

METHODS

A multi-institution retrospective chart review was performed on patients who underwent the MED approach for the management of tumors involving the anterior maxillary sinus from 2009 to 2020. Demographic data, pathology, surgical outcomes, and complications were reviewed.

RESULTS

Fifty-eight patients were identified, including 34 (58.6%) male and 24 (41.4%) female patients. The most common pathologies included: inverted papilloma (n = 27; 46.6%), adenoid cystic carcinoma (n = 9; 15.5%), and squamous cell carcinoma (n = 8; 13.8%). Thirty-eight patients (65.5%) underwent MED alone, while 20 (34.5%) had combined expanded endonasal approaches for lesions extending beyond the maxillary sinus. All maxillary sinus lesions were successfully accessed with the MED procedure without the need for an additional approach. After a mean follow-up of 30 months (range, 1-127), 8 of 58 (13.8%) patients developed complications related to the MED, including epiphora requiring an additional procedure (n = 4; 6.9%), prolonged facial/palatal numbness (n = 3; 5.2%), severe epistaxis (n = 1; 1.7%), and vestibular stenosis (n = 1; 1.7%), the latter of which occurred following postoperative radiation.

CONCLUSION

The MED procedure is a safe and highly effective approach for benign and malignant tumors involving the anterior maxillary sinus. However, patients should be counseled preoperatively on potential complications including the risk of facial numbness and epiphora.

Comparative Outcomes by Surgical Approach in Patients with Malignant Sinonasal Disease

Objective There is a paucity of data on comparative outcomes for open versus endoscopic surgery for patients with malignant sinonasal pathology. Most of the available studies are limited by a sample size <100 patients.

Design This is a retrospective cohort study.

Setting The findings of this study come from a single-institution tertiary care center from 2008 to 2019.

Participants In total, 199 patients who underwent surgery for malignant sinonasal disease participated in this study.

Main Outcome Measures The main outcome measures were perioperative complications and reoperation.

Results Patients in our sample had a mean age of 59.7 years (SD, 20.4). In total, 62% were male and 72% were white. An endoscopic-only approach was used in 41% of patients and an open or combined approach in 59% of patients. Squamous cell carcinoma was the most common pathology (43.0%), followed by sarcoma (9.5%), skin cancer (6.5%), sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma (6.5%), and adenocarcinoma (5.5%). The all-cause complication rate was 14.6%. Patients with an open resection had a higher rate of intraoperative complications (5.9 vs. 0%; p = 0.043), postoperative complications (19.5 vs. 3.7%; p = 0.001), and all-cause complications (21.0 vs. 3.7%; p < 0.001). The likelihood of early reoperation (<6 months) or late reoperation (>6 months) did not significantly differ by surgical approach (p = 1.000 and 0.741, respectively).

Conclusion The endoscopic approach for resection of malignant sinonasal disease is viable for select patients and may be associated with a favorable complication rate compared with the open approach.

Exclusively endoscopic surgical resection of esthesioneuroblastoma: A systematic review

Background

Historically sinonasal malignancies were always addressed via open craniofacial surgery for an oncologic resection. Increasingly esthesioneuroblastomas are excised using an exclusively endoscopic approach, however, the rarity of this disease limits the availability of long‐term and large scale outcomes data.

Objective

The primary objective is to evaluate the treatment modalities used and the overall survival of patients with esthesioneuroblastoma managed with exclusively endoscopic surgery.

Methods

In accordance with PRISMA guidelines, PubMed was queried to identify studies describing outcomes associated with endoscopic management of esthesioneuroblastomas.

Results

Forty‐four out of 2462 articles met inclusion criteria, totaling 399 patients with esthesioneuroblastoma treated with an exclusively endoscopic approach. Seventy‐two patients (18.0%) received adjuvant chemotherapy and 331 patients (83.0%) received postoperative radiation therapy. The average age was 50.6 years old (range 6–83). Of the 399 patients, 57 (16.6%) were Kadish stage A, 121 (35.2%) were Kadish stage B, 145 (42.2%) were Kadish stage C, and 21 (6.1%) were Kadish stage D. Pooled analysis demonstrated that 66.0% of patients had Hyams histologic Grade Ⅰ or Ⅱ, while 34.0% of patients had Grade Ⅲ or Ⅳ disease. Negative surgical margins were achieved in 86.9% of patients, and recurrence was identified in 10.3% of patients. Of those with 5‐year follow‐up, reported overall survival was 91.1%.

Conclusion

Exclusively endoscopic surgery for esthesioneuroblastoma is performed for a wide range of disease stages and grades, and the majority of these patients are also treated with adjuvant chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Reported overall recurrence rate is 10.3% and 5‐year survival is 91.1%.

Soft Robotic Deployable Origami Actuators for Neurosurgical Brain Retraction

Metallic tools such as graspers, forceps, spatulas, and clamps have been used in proximity to delicate neurological tissue and the risk of damage to this tissue is a primary concern for neurosurgeons. Novel soft robotic technologies have the opportunity to shift the design paradigm for these tools towards safer and more compliant, minimally invasive methods. Here, we present a pneumatically actuated, origami-inspired deployable brain retractor aimed at atraumatic surgical workspace generation inside the cranial cavity. We discuss clinical requirements, design, fabrication, analytical modeling, experimental characterization, and in-vitro validation of the proposed device on a brain model.

Complication Risk in Ventral Skull Base Surgery Based on Preoperative Hematocrit

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

Preoperative anemia has been shown to be a predictor of complications in different surgeries. This has not been exclusively studied in skull base surgery. This study investigates the impact of preoperative hematocrit on complications following ventral skull base (VSB) surgery.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective database review.

METHODS

The National Surgical Quality Improvement Program was queried for all cases of VSB surgery from 2005 to 2015. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to investigate the impact of preoperative anemia on complications following VSB procedures.

RESULTS

3,053 patients meeting inclusion criteria were identified. On univariate analysis, low hematocrit was found in 39.7% of patients and was associated with increased mean age (55.71 vs. 53.25 years), male gender (63.6% vs. 36.4%), and Black race (18.5% vs. 10.9%). Preoperative anemia was also associated with increased incidences of postoperative pneumonia, blood transfusions, sepsis, medical complications, surgical complications, extended length of hospital stay (LOS), and mortality. On multivariate analysis, associations between low preoperative hematocrit and perioperative transfusions (odds ratio [OR] 2.57, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.88-3.50, P < .001), total surgical complications (OR 2.12, 95% CI 1.60-2.80, P < .001), and extended LOS (OR 1.29, 95% CI 1.05-1.57, P = .013) remained significant.

CONCLUSIONS

Low preoperative hematocrit is associated with increased risk of postoperative complications and extended LOS in patients undergoing VSB surgery. This study highlights the importance of careful preoperative assessment and management of anemia in these patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3 Laryngoscope, 2021.

Anatomical Study of Ethmoidal Foramina and Optic Canal in Endoscopic Trans-Nasal Approach to Anterior Skull Base

BACKGROUND

Surgery to anterior skull base is challenging since complex structures are involved. Injury of olfactory fila and optic nerve may result in postoperative complications. In our study, the authors aim to use computer topographic image to provide a comprehensive anatomical information of anterior skull base and set up a new classification of optic canal (OC) in ethmoid sinus by the degree of bony defect, so as to help surgeons in endoscopic transnasal approach to anterior skull base.

METHOD

Computer topographic angiography images of 112 individuals were reviewed, the measurement was performed on coronal, sagittal, and axis planes after the multiplanar reformation. Nostril and mid-sagittal lines were used to locate the anterior, middle, and posterior part of ethmoidal foramina and orbital opening of OC. Further, the authors classified OC in ethmoidal sinus into 4 types by the degree of the bony defect.

RESULT

Distance between nostril to anterior, middle, and posterior part of ethmoidal foramina and OC are 6.23 ± 0.21, 6.62 ± 0.26, 7.29 ± 0.25, and 7.76 ± 0.41 mm, respectively. Angle between line from nostril to ethmoidal foramina and horizontal plane are 47.50° ± 1.03°, 41.67° ± 1.33°, 37.20° ± 1.34°, respectively. For the 4 types of OC, the percentage is 15.6%, 11.6%, 31.3%, and 41.5%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings provide anatomical information of ethmoidal foramina and OC during endoscopic transnasal approach to anterior skull base, on the basis of some fixed anatomical landmarks. So as to enhance the surgical safety of this procedure and aid in the choice of the appropriate endoscopic equipment for the procedure.

Anterior Skull Base Surgery via Endoscopic Endonasal Approach: Outcomes and Analysis

BACKGROUND

This study was retrospectively conducted to evaluate the postoperative surgical results of our patients with anterior skull base mass, defect, and/or cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea who underwent reconstruction via endoscopic endonasal approach and to share our experiences.

METHODS

Sociodemographic features of patients who had undergone endoscopic surgery in our clinic due to anterior skull base mass, defect, or rhinorrhea were evaluated in terms of etiological factors, surgical method, pathology, postoperative complications, need for revision surgery and comorbid disease.

RESULTS

A total of 131 patients were included; 76 were male and mean age was 36.2 years. Endoscopic endonasal surgery was performed for nasal mass (70.2%) in 92 cases, rhinorrhea (17.6%) in 23 cases, chronic sinusitis (7.6%) in 10 cases, and gunshot injury (4.6%) in 6 cases. After surgery, benign mass pathology was detected in 75 patients and malignant mass pathology was detected in 23 patients. Osteoma was the most common among benign formations, and squamous cell carcinoma was the most common among malignant formations. The most common cause of surgical revision was nasal masses (25 cases, 77.4%).

CONCLUSION

Endoscopic intracranial interventions and increased anterior skull base surgery are garnering increased interest of physicians as endoscopic approaches are gaining popularity in recent years. Successful results are achieved through appropriate diagnostic methods and endoscopic approaches. Success rates will be further increased due to developing technology and imaging methods, while the risk of complications and revision surgery will be further reduced.

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.

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.

How close are we to anterior robotic skull base surgery?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The application of robotic surgery to anterior skull base disease has yet to be defined despite the potential for improved tumour resection with less morbidity in this region. Complex anatomy and restricted access have limited the development of robotic anterior skull base surgery.

RECENT FINDINGS

A limited number of transoral robotic surgical anterior skull base procedures have been undertaken; however, there are significant limitations to the utilization of this technology in the anterior skull base. In this article, the advantages, disadvantages and limitations of robotic anterior skull base surgery are discussed. Currently, the major limitation is the size of the robotic endoscope and of the available instrumentation. Technological advancements that provide promise for the future development of robotic anterior skull base surgery are in development, such as single-port robots, flexible instrument systems and miniaturization and growth of minimally invasive platforms.

SUMMARY

Although transnasal access to the skull base is not possible with the currently available robotic systems, promising technology does exist and is in development. Robotic anterior skull base surgery promises to provide greater access to skull base disease, improve oncologic results, reduce morbidity and to reduce the ergonomic burden on the surgeon.

Endoscopic approaches to skull base malignancies affecting the anterior fossa

Anterior skull base malignancies are rare and comprise distinct histological entities. Surgery encompasses the traditional craniofacial resections (CFR), and more recently, endoscopic endonasal approaches (EEA) or a hybrid cranioendoscopic (CEA) technique. Although the CFR is still considered the "gold-standard;" there is growing evidence supporting that EEA yield equivalent oncologic outcomes with less morbidity in well-selected cases. Therefore, this article aims to review the current state-of-art in addressing anterior cranial base malignancies using expanded endoscopic endonasal approaches (EEA) with particular references to surgical anatomy and nuances of hybrid cranioendoscopic techniques. Cadaveric dissections and illustrative cases are presented to detail our current surgical technique allied with tailored adjuvant therapies, and treatment strategies are further discussed based on tumor histology.

Correlating the treatment outcome with tumor staging, grading, and various treatment modalities in patients with esthesioneuroblastoma

Objective:

Although till date no management protocol for esthesioneuroblastoma (ENB) has been standardized due to tumor rarity, still multimodality approach shows better treatment outcomes as compared to surgery alone. The objective of this study was to analyze the clinicopathological spectrum of ENB and to correlate treatment response with tumor staging, histopathological grading, and various treatment modalities.

Materials and Methods:

Twenty-one consecutive patients with biopsy-proven ENB were studied and evaluated for response to treatment in the form of complete tumor resolution. Results were analyzed and correlated with stage and grade of tumor and form of therapy received.

Results:

There was male preponderance (3.2:1) with age ranging between 7 and 63 years (median of 25 years). Survival rates significantly dropped with increasing tumor stage (63.6% in stages A and B vs. 30% in stages C and D) and grade (100% in Grades 1 and 2 vs. 31.25% in Grades 3 and 4). The recurrence rate was 80% in surgery alone group, which came down to 43.7% if surgery was supplemented with other modalities. In cases where multimodality treatment plan was used, endoscopic procedures fared equally as open surgical procedures.

Conclusion:

Hyam's grade and Kadish stage are important prognostic indicators of treatment outcome, with survival rates dropping with increasing tumor stage and grade. Multimodality treatment protocols have improved the disease outcome, making endoscopic surgery equivalent to radical surgeries regarding result outcomes and giving other advantages such as better cosmesis, less treatment-related morbidities, decreased hospital stay, and better cost-effectiveness.

Infratemporal fossa surgical approaches to primary/recurrent malignancies of salivary origin: paradigm surgical shift, patient selection, and oncologic outcomes

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To review, the surgical approaches available on diagnosing a patient with salivary gland malignancy in the infratemporal fossa (ITF). To comment on patient evaluation and method of treatment selection. To identify and report on patient outcome data and make recommendations on future needs.

RECENT FINDINGS

There is a need to define the anatomic boundaries contents of the ITF, masticator space, parapharyngeal space (PPS), pterygopalatine fossa, ventral skull base, and paramedian skull base, as evidence from publications. The pathological subtypes identified mainly include adenoid cystic and mucoepidermoid carcinomas. The source of these tumours originates from primary disease in the sinonasal tract and nasopharynx superiorly, and the PPS/deep lobe of parotid inferiorly. Current surgical options available, in suitable selected patient, available in tertiary head and neck cancer hospitals, which have available facilities and staffing is the endoscopic endonasal approach. This approach offers patients a 'complete margin-free surgical excision', minimal complications, shorter hospital stay, and no delay with commencement of any adjuvant treatment compared with the traditional 'open transcutaneous' approach.

SUMMARY

The current evidence specifically to the surgical management of salivary gland malignancy involving the ITF is sparse, with great difficult identifying treated patients and their details among a heterogeneous group of patients with many lesions. There is a need for patient data that have specific pathologic conditions to be amalgamated from such centers and publish on outcome events.

Methods of Skull Base Repair Following Endoscopic Endonasal Tumor Resection: A Review

Following the introduction of fully endoscopic techniques for the resection of pituitary tumors, there was a rapid expansion of the indications for endonasal endoscopic surgery to include extrasellar tumors of the skull base. These techniques offer significant advantages over traditional open surgical approaches to the skull base, including improved tumor resection, and better post-operative neurological outcomes. Following their introduction, however, the initial rate of post-operative CSF leak was unacceptably high. Post-operative CSF leak following skull base surgery is a major source of morbidity, and can lead to the development of life-threatening intracranial infection. The use of vascularized naso-septal flaps transformed the management of these patients, significantly reducing the rate of post-operative CSF leak and increasing the number of patients that could benefit from this less invasive treatment modality. Adequate repair of iatrogenic defects in the skull base is of crucial importance for patients with skull base tumors, as the development of a post-operative CSF leak, and the associated complications can significantly delay the administration of the adjunctive oncological therapies these patients require. In this review, we provide an overview of the latest evidence regarding skull base reconstruction following endoscopic skull base surgery, and describe the skull base repair technique in use at our institution.

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.

Reconstruction of skull base bone defects using an in situ bone flap after endoscopic endonasal transplanum-transtuberculum approaches

PURPOSE

The creation of bone flaps which can be later repositioned and fixed in situ for repairing the bone defects during the endoscopic endonasal approaches (EEAs)-similar to transcranial craniotomies-is still a challenge. We present an in situ bone flap (ISBF) closure for the repair of bone defects after endoscopic endonasal transplanum-transtuberculum approaches (EETAs).

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of consecutive patients who underwent the EETAs between January 2016 and February 2019 was performed. According to whether or not to use ISBF for skull base reconstruction, these patients were divided into the ISBF group or the non-ISBF group.

RESULTS

Of 47 patients in the ISBF group, only one patient (2.1%) developed postoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage, yielding a significantly lower leakage rate in the ISBF group than in the non-ISBF group (6 of 38, 15.8%, P = 0.042). Besides, when only comparing cases of hydrocephalus in the two groups, the CSF leakage rate in the ISBF group was 8.3% (1/12), which was still significantly lower than that in the non-ISBF group (62.5%, 6/8) (P = 0.018). Postoperative CSF leakages in both groups were successfully treated with lumbar drainage alone, and no cases of injury to the internal carotid arteries or optic nerves occurred in either group.

CONCLUSIONS

An ISBF closure similar to transcranial craniotomies with repositioning bone flap in situ-is feasible, safe, and reliable. The ISBF closure combining with a pedicled nasoseptal flap (PNSF) provides the cranial base surgeon with an additional repair method that has demonstrated effectiveness at facilitating a more stable and durable reconstruction and reducing CSF leaks.

Endoscopic Skull Base Surgery Protocol From the Frontlines: Transnasal Surgery During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Objective

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic disrupted the standard management paradigms for care of patients with sinus and skull base presentations due to concern for patient and health care provider safety, given the high aerosol-generating potential of endonasal procedures.

Data Sources

We reviewed the relevant literature complied from available sources, including PubMed, Google Scholar, and otolaryngology journals providing electronic manuscripts ahead of indexing or publication.

Review Methods

Incorporating available evidence and the projected infection control and resource limitations at our institution, we collectively authored a dynamic set of protocols guiding (1) case stratification, (2) preoperative assessment, (3) operative setup, and (4) postoperative care of patients with sinus or skull base presentations. Due to the rapidly evolving nature of COVID-19 publications, lack of rigorous data, and urgent necessity of standardized protocols, strict inclusion and exclusion criteria were not employed.

Conclusions

As scarce hospital resources are diverted to COVID-19 care and staff are redeployed to forward-facing roles, endonasal procedures have largely ceased, leaving patients with ongoing sinonasal and skull base complaints untreated. Skull base teams now weigh the urgency of surgery in this population with the regional availability of resources.

Implications for Practice

The COVID-19 pandemic will have an enduring and unpredictable impact on hospital operations and surgical skull base practices and will require a dynamic set of management protocols responsive to new evidence and changing resources. In the current resource-limited environment, clinicians may utilize these protocols to assist with stratifying patients by acuity, performing preoperative assessment, and guiding peri- and postoperative care.

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.

Assessment of post-operative healing following endoscopic, transnasal, transsphenoidal pituitary surgery without formal sellar grafting

INTRODUCTION

Multiple options exist for sellar reconstruction after endoscopic transnasal, transsphenoidal surgery (TSS) including free mucosa, fat, bone and synthetic materials. The objective of this study was to assess healing and mucosalization of the sellar face following TSS without formal sellar grafting or reconstruction.

METHODS

Single institution retrospective chart review was conducted for patients undergoing TSS without intraoperative CSF leaks between January 2014 and March 2017 at Rush University Medical Center. No formal sellar reconstruction was performed for the entire patient group. Follow-up endoscopic data and clinical notes were coded for time to mucosalization of the sella as well as degree of abnormal mucosal healing, epistaxis, crusting and scarring.

RESULTS

83 patients were included in this study. Mean time to mucosalization was 119 days (range, 17 to 402 days). Incidence of abnormal mucosal healing, epistaxis, crusting and scarring increased from the first to the second postoperative visit but trended down by the third visit. Nasal crusting was the most common finding, followed by abnormal mucosal healing. Chi square analysis showed smoking to be associated with prolonged time to full mucosalization of the sella. Two patients (2.4%) had post-operative CSF leaks requiring lumbar drain placement.

CONCLUSION

Adequate sellar healing is achievable in all cases without formal grafting or reconstruction after TSS. Great care must be exercised given the small inherent risk of unmasking a subclinical intraoperative CSF leak. Patients should be followed closely endoscopically during the first four months after TSS to minimize the impact of crusting.

Treatment-related morbidity in patients treated for sinonasal malignancy

BACKGROUND

Sinonasal malignancies are a rare, heterogeneous group of tumors that often present at an advanced stage and require multimodal therapy. The presence of high-grade toxicity and sinonasal complications after treatment can negatively impact quality of life. In this study we aim to describe posttreatment morbidity in patients with sinonasal malignancy.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of all patients treated for sinonasal malignancy was conducted from 2005 to 2018 at a tertiary referral institution. A total of 129 patients met the inclusion criteria. Primary outcomes were treatment details, pathology, posttreatment complications, and radiation toxicity. Fisher's exact test, chi-square test, and Student t test were used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

Mean age was 58.4 (median, 61; range, 19-94) years. After diagnosis, 24 patients had surgery alone, 46 had surgery with radiation alone, 47 had surgery with chemoradiation, and 14 received definitive chemoradiation. Overall, 10.4% (n = 12) of patients had postoperative complications, and 21.0% (n = 22) had high-grade (grade 3-5) radiation toxicity. After radiation, 20% (n = 21) of patients had chronic sinusitis requiring functional endoscopic sinus surgery and 20% (n = 21) had symptomatic nasal obstruction requiring operative debridement.

CONCLUSION

Sinonasal complications, including nasal obstruction and chronic sinusitis, occur frequently after definitive treatment of sinonasal malignancy and should be addressed when considering quality of life in survivors. These complications occur more frequently in patients who undergo chemoradiation as opposed to surgery alone.

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.

Prospective characterization of postoperative nasal deformities in patients undergoing endoscopic endonasal skull-base surgery

BACKGROUND

Surgeons have become increasingly aware of the impact of endoscopic endonasal surgery (EES) of the skull base on sinonasal-related quality of life. Prior retrospective investigation described a correlation between nasoseptal flap (NSF) reconstruction in EES with postoperative nasal deformities, such as nasal dorsum collapse. The primary objective of this study was to prospectively evaluate the incidence of, and contributing factors to, postoperative changes in nasal structure following EES. Secondary goals included assessing subjective changes in nasal appearance as well as objective nasal analysis.

METHODS

Clinical demographics and detailed perioperative information was prospectively collected for patients undergoing transsellar/suprasellar EES for skull-base tumors. Preoperatively, 1-month and 6-month photographs were completed for objective photographic nasal analysis and blinded assessment by surgeons. Subjective patient feedback was also solicited.

RESULTS

Overall, 14.7% (5/34) of patients subjectively reported postoperative nasal deformities, whereas both blinded-surgeon and objective nasal measurements identified deformities in 12.9% (4/31) of patients. Patients with postoperative deformities were more likely to have skull-base reconstruction with an NSF (p = 0.01) and trended toward an increased incidence in patients with nonpituitary neoplasms (p = 0.07). There were no other associations between clinical or operative characteristics and external deformities. No patients planned to undergo corrective repair.

CONCLUSION

External nasal deformities following EES are more frequent than previously acknowledged. Postoperative deformities appear to be associated with NSF reconstruction and may be associated with surgery for nonpituitary neoplasms. Patients should be counseled on this potential outcome, and future studies should investigate how to minimize postoperative sequela.

Augmentation of Dural Defect Repairs Strength With an Acrylic Plate in a Porcine Ex Vivo Model

Background

Large skull base defects can be challenging to repair. This study uses a controlled ex vivo model to examine the failure pressures of various dural repairs of large skull base defects using mucosa with fibrin glue under 3 conditions: No Additional Support of the repair, support with a Foley catheter (Direct Support), and with Foley catheter contact over a rigid acrylic plate (Diffuse Support).

Methods

Failure pressures of dural repairs with and without support were determined in a porcine model using an ex vivo closed testing apparatus. In addition, 20 mm × 15 mm dural defects were created. Skull base repairs were performed using porcine dura as an underlay graft followed by a septal mucosa overlay. Saline was infused at 30 mL/h, applying even force to the underside of the graft until repair failure occurred for each condition (none, direct, and diffuse support). Five trials were performed per repair type for a total of 15 repairs.

Results

The mean failure pressures were as follows: No Additional Support, 6.494 ± 2.553 mm Hg; Direct Support, 5.103 ± 3.913 mm Hg; and Diffuse Support, 15.649 ± 2.638 mm Hg. A post hoc Bonferroni-Holm test demonstrated significant difference between No Additional Support and Diffuse Support ( P = .001), as well as Direct Support and Diffuse Support ( P = .002).

Conclusion

Support of dural repairs in this model withstood higher pressures when the Foley catheter’s support is distributed evenly using a flat acrylic plate. Use of this plate is the only repair tested in this model that tolerated normal adult supine intracranial pressures.

Sinonasal quality-of-life outcomes after endoscopic endonasal skull base surgery

BACKGROUND

There are substantial gaps in our understanding of the influence of the endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA) for endoscopic skull base surgery on sinonasal-specific quality of life (QOL) as well as the instruments available for assessment. Our primary objective in this study was to characterize postoperative changes in sinonasal QOL, specifically using the 22-item Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22), with a secondary objective of delineating weaknesses in our current understanding of patient symptomatology after EEA for skull base surgery.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature review was conducted using PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, and SCOPUS for studies reporting SNOT-22 data pre- and postoperatively in patients who underwent EEA for skull base pathologies. Studies were limited to patients ≥18 years of age and excluded patients diagnosed with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS).

RESULTS

Nineteen unique studies with 27 separate data sets and a total of 1025 patients were used in this meta-analysis. Overall SNOT-22 scores statistically improved at the 6-month (p = 0.0009) and 1-year (p = 0.002) time-points. Patients with preoperative SNOT-22 scores ≥20 achieved postoperative improvements at 12-week (p < 0.00001), 6-month (p < 0.0001), 1-year (p < 0.00001), and long-term follow-up (p < 0.0001). Patients with preoperative SNOT-22 scores <20 remained stable and did not worsen postoperatively.

CONCLUSION

Patients undergoing EEA for skull base pathologies who have impaired sinonasal QOL preoperatively demonstrated significant postoperative QOL improvements. Those patients with relatively normal preoperative sinonasal QOL remained asymptomatic postoperatively. This study supports the need for development of a contemporary disease- and approach-specific, validated QOL instrument for skull base pathologies.

Timing of surgery and adjuvant radiation therapy for sinonasal malignancies: Effect of surgical approach

BACKGROUND

Timely postoperative radiation therapy (RT) within 50 days of surgery for head and neck cancers provides a survival advantage.

METHODS

Using the National Cancer Database, we performed a propensity score-matched analysis comparing patients undergoing open or endoscopic surgery for squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses from 2010 to 2015.

RESULTS

Among 168 pairs, patients undergoing endoscopic surgery had shorter time to surgery (24.2 vs 36.7 days, P < .001) and shorter postoperative time to RT (PTTR, 51.2 vs 58.4 days, P = .02). On multivariable linear regression, endoscopic surgery predicted shorter PTTR (β = -7.6, P = .01). Using the Kaplan-Meier method, patients in the longest PTTR quartile had decreased overall survival (OS; Q1 vs Q4, 3-year OS 76.5% vs 53.3%, P = .007), a durable finding when adjusted for covariates (Q1 vs Q4, HR 0.50, P = .008).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients undergoing endoscopic surgery for sinonasal SCC experience shorter PTTR. Shorter PTTR is associated with extended OS.

Smoking and Obesity are Risk Factors for Thirty-Day Readmissions Following Skull Base Surgery

Background  Thirty-day readmission has become a significant health care metric reflecting the quality of care and on the cost of service delivery. There is little data on the impact of complications following skull base surgery (SBS) on emergency readmission. Identifying modifiable risk factors for readmission may improve care and reduce cost. Design  The study was designed as a single-center retrospective cohort study. Methods  Records for a consecutive series of 165 patients who underwent open or endoscopic SBS by a single surgeon reviewed. Patients with pituitary adenoma were excluded. The diagnosis, procedure, complications, length of stay (LOS), body mass index (BMI), and smoking status were recorded. Readmission to the neurosurgical department or regional hospitals was either noted prospectively or the patient contacted. Cause and length of readmission was documented. Results  Of the 165 cases, 14 (8.5%) were readmitted within 30 days. Causes for readmission included cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak in 5/14 or 35.7% (overall rate for readmission for this complication in the series is 3.1%), infection in 4/14 (28.6%), hyponatraemia in 2/14 (14.3%), vascular: sinus thrombosis in 1/14 (7.1%), seizures in 1/14 (7.1%), and epistaxis in 1/14 (7.1%). Initial and readmission LOS was 6 and 14 days, respectively. BMI was higher in those readmitted within 30 days (33.2 kg/m ² ) versus no readmission (27.1 kg/m ² ). In addition, of those readmitted within 30 days, 35.7% were smokers compared with 20.8% in those not readmitted. Conclusion  In this series, smoking and raised BMI may be indicators for within 30-day readmission and complications in this population, raising the question of risk factor modification prior to elective intervention.

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.

Predictors of Short-term Morbidity and Mortality in Open Anterior Skull Base Surgery

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

To describe rates of complications and mortality within 30 days of open anterior skull base surgery using a large, multi-institutional outcomes database.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

METHODS

The study included patients who underwent open anterior skull base surgery as listed in the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Project database from 2007 through 2014.

RESULTS

A total of 336 open anterior skull base surgeries were identified. One hundred nine (32.4%) patients experienced a complication, reoperation, or mortality. The most common events were postoperative transfusion (15.8%), reoperation (10.1%), and readmission (8.0%). Significant independent predictors of any adverse event included higher American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score and increased total operative time (both P < .05). The only predictor of mortality was higher ASA score (P = .02). Predictors of increased hospital stay included impaired sensorium (P = .04), coma >24 hours (P < .001), lower preoperative hematocrit (P = .02), higher ASA score (P = .04), and increased total operative time (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Open anterior skull base surgery is understandably complex, and is thus associated with a relatively high adverse event rate. Knowledge of factors associated with adverse events has the potential to improve preoperative optimization of controllable variables and translate into improved surgical outcomes for patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

NA Laryngoscope, 129:1407-1412, 2019.

Planned Gamma Knife Boost After Chemoradiotherapy for Selected Sinonasal and Nasopharyngeal Cancers

OBJECTIVE

To determine the feasibility of a Gamma Knife boost after intensity-modulated radiation therapy in combination with multimodal therapy in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma and sinonasal malignancies with skull base or cavernous sinus involvement.

METHODS

Nine patients were treated with intensity-modulated radiation therapy followed by a Gamma Knife boost. In one case Gamma Knife was given as salvage treatment after resection. Five patients had sinonasal malignancies and 4 had nasopharyngeal carcinoma. The mean radiation therapy dose was 64.3 Gy (range, 54-70 Gy) at 2 Gy per fraction. The median interval from completion of radiation therapy to Gamma Knife boost was 2.2 months (range, 1-4 months). The most common indication for Gamma Knife boost was involvement of the cavernous sinus, which was identified in 7 patients. The median margin Gamma Knife dose delivered was 13 Gy (range, 12-20 Gy), with median prescription isodose of 50%.

RESULTS

All patients tolerated the procedure well, with minimal toxicity. Local control rates were achieved in all patients and no acute grade 3-5 toxicity was observed. One patient experienced late grade 4 toxicity, which was potentially attributable to treatment. Distant failure occurred in 3 patients (1 patient with nasopharyngeal carcinoma and 2 patients with sinonasal malignancies).

CONCLUSIONS

Planned Gamma Knife boost followed intensity-modulated radiation therapy is feasible, safe, and provides excellent local control in patients with sinonasal malignancies and nasopharyngeal carcinoma, particularly in cases with cavernous sinus involvement. Further follow-up will be necessary to determine the long-term effectiveness and complication profile.