Perioperative Considerations in Endoscopic Skull Base Surgery

Curr Otorhinolaryngol Rep. 2020;8(2):129-135. doi: 10.1007/s40136-020-00278-7. Epub 2020 Mar 19.

Abstract

Purpose of the review: Present an overview of perioperative considerations specific to endoscopic skull base surgery necessary to maximize successful outcomes.

Recent findings: The majority of perioperative considerations for endoscopic skull base surgery lack strong supporting evidence and frequently have varied use or implementation amongst institutions. A notable exception comes from a recent randomized controlled trial demonstrating the benefit of lumbar drainage in high-risk cerebrospinal fluid leaks.

Summary: Skull base surgeons must consider a multitude of perioperative factors. While many components of perioperative management are extrapolated from related fields such as endoscopic sinus surgery or open cranial base surgery, additional high-quality studies are needed to delineate best practices specific to endoscopic skull base surgery.

Keywords: Antibiotics; Endoscopic; Lumbar drain; Perioperative; Skull base surgery.

Publication types

  • Review