Endoscopic precaruncular medial transorbital and endonasal multiport approaches to the contralateral skull base: a clinicoanatomical study.

OBJECTIVE: Minimally invasive endoscopic endonasal multiport approaches create additional visualization angles to treat skull base pathologies. The sublabial contralateral transmaxillary (CTM) approach and superior eyelid lateral transorbital approach, frequently used nowadays, have been referred to as the "third port" when used alongside the endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA). The endoscopic precaruncular contralateral medial transorbital (cMTO) corridor, on the other hand, is an underrecognized but unique port that has been used to repair CSF rhinorrhea originating from the lateral sphenoid sinus recess. However, no anatomical feasibility studies or clinical experience exists to assess its benefits and demonstrate its potential role in multiport endoscopic access to the other contralateral skull base areas. In this study, the authors explored the application and potential utility of multiport EEA combined with the endoscopic cMTO approach (EEA/cMTO) to three target areas of the contralateral skull base: lateral recess of sphenoid sinus (LRSS), petrous apex (PA) and petroclival region, and retrocarotid clinoidocavernous space (CCS). METHODS: Ten cadaveric specimens (20 sides) were dissected bilaterally under stereotactic navigation guidance to access contralateral LRSS via EEA/cMTO. The PA and petroclival region and retrocarotid CCS were exposed via EEA alone, EEA/cMTO, and EEA combined with the sublabial CTM approach (EEA/CTM). Qualitative and quantitative assessments, including working distance and visualization angle to the PA, were recorded. Clinical application of EEA/cMTO is demonstrated in a lateral sphenoid sinus CSF leak repair. RESULTS: During the qualitative assessment, multiport EEA/cMTO provides superior visualization from a high vantage point and better instrument maneuverability than multiport EEA/CTM for the PA and retrocarotid CCS, while maintaining a similar lateral trajectory. The cMTO approach has significantly shorter working distances to all three target areas compared with the CTM approach and EEA. The mean distances to the LRSS, PA, and retrocarotid CCS were 50.69 ± 4.28 mm (p < 0.05), 67.11 ± 5.05 mm (p < 0.001), and 50.32 ± 3.6 mm (p < 0.001), respectively. The mean visualization angles to the PA obtained by multiport EEA/cMTO and EEA/CTM were 28.4° ± 3.27° and 24.42° ± 5.02° (p < 0.005), respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Multiport EEA/cMTO to the contralateral LRSS offers the advantage of preserving the pterygopalatine fossa contents and the vidian nerve, which are frequently sacrificed during a transpterygoid approach. This approach also offers superior visualization and better instrument maneuverability compared with EEA/CTM for targeting the petroclival region and retrocarotid CCS.

Effectiveness of Nasolacrimal SCC Treatments and Promising Role of Chemo-Induction: A Case Report and Systematic Review.

OBJECTIVE: To comprehensively analyze reported cases of nasolacrimal squamous cell carcinoma (NLSCC), focusing on risk factors, treatment modalities, and outcomes. Additionally, investigate the impact of human Papillomavirus (HPV) status and histopathological subtypes' impact on prognosis. DATA SOURCES: Pubmed, Embase. REVIEW METHODS: We conducted a systematic literature review to identify relevant studies reporting cases of NLSCC. The review methods adhered to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The final update was performed on May 31, 2023. RESULTS: The 72 studies included a total of 313 participants (mean age: 55; 60% male). Longer symptom duration (44.1 ± 59.2 months) correlated with recurrence (p = 0.004), and males exhibited higher mortality rates (19.6% vs. 2.4% in females, p = 0.01). The overall survival (OS) rate among all patients was 87.1%. Basaloid NLSCC had a worse death outcome (p ≤ 0.001). HPV-positive cases showed comparable OS, recurrence, and metastasis rates to the general population (p = 0.917, 0.851, 0.07, respectively). Comparing treatment approaches (surgery, surgery with adjuvant radiation, chemoradiotherapy [CRT] followed by surgery), no significant differences in 5 and 10-year OS rates or recurrence were observed (p = 0.4, 0.24, respectively), but 5-year metastasis events were significant (p = 0.024). Eye exenteration rates were 31.1%, 20%, and 0% for the respective treatments (p = 0.089). Induction chemotherapy saved four cases from potential exenteration with favorable prognosis. CONCLUSION: Early detection and diagnosis are of utmost importance in the management of NLSCC. Regardless of the treatment approach, HPV-related NLSCC demonstrated similar outcomes to the general population. Basaloid histology represents the worst subtype in terms of prognosis. Limited adjuvant CRT cases showed improved outcomes and induction chemotherapy's importance was emphasized in recent literature and our shared experience. Laryngoscope, 2024.

Contralateral Nasofrontal Trephination: A Novel Corridor for a "Dual Port" Approach to the Petrous Apex.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Expanded endonasal approaches (EEAs) have proven safe and effective in treating select petrous apex (PA) pathologies. Angled endoscopes and instruments have expanded indications for such approaches; however, the complex neurovascular anatomy surrounding the petrous region remains a significant challenge. This study evaluates the feasibility, anatomic aspects, and limitations of a contralateral nasofrontal trephination (CNT) route as a complementary corridor improving access to the PA. METHODS: Expanded endonasal and CNT approaches to the PA were carried out bilaterally in 15 cadaveric heads with endovascular latex injections. The distance to the PA, angle between instruments through the 2 approach portals, and surgical freedom were measured and compared. RESULTS: Three-dimensional DICOM-based modeling and visualization indicate that the CNT route reduces the distance to the target located within the contralateral PA by an average of 3.33 cm (19%) and affords a significant increase in the angle between instruments (15.60°; 54%). Furthermore, the vertical vector of approach is improved by 28.97° yielding a caudal reach advantage of 2 cm. The area of surgical freedom afforded by 3 different approaches (endonasal, endonasal with an endoscope in CNT portal, and endonasal with an instrument in CNT portal) was compared at 4 points: the dural exit point of the 6th cranial nerve, jugular foramen, foramen lacerum, and petroclival fissure. The mean area of surgical freedom provided by both approaches incorporating the CNT corridor was superior to EEA alone at each of the surgical targets (P = <.001). CONCLUSION: The addition of a CNT portal provides an additional avenue to expand on the classical EEA to the PA. This study provides insight into the anatomic nuances and potential clinical benefits of a dual-port approach to the PA.

Morphometric Comparison of Endoscopic Endonasal Transpterygoid and Precaruncular Contralateral Medial Transorbital Approaches to Sphenoid Sinus Lateral Recess.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The endoscopic endonasal transpterygoid approach (TPA), minimally invasive compared with the sublabial transmaxillary and transcranial approaches, still accounts for morbidity in benign lateral recess of sphenoid sinus (LRSS) pathologies. Others have suggested an alternative route to the LRSS, the endoscopic contralateral medial transorbital approach (cMTO). However, no quantitative evidence exists to support the clinical application of this approach. This cadaveric study, in a controlled laboratory setting, provides a morphometric comparison of the TPA and cMTO for accessing the LRSS. The study also details the anatomy and technical nuances for optimizing the cMTO corridor. METHODS: Ten fresh preinjected human cadaveric specimens (20 sides) were dissected with neuronavigation, completing endoscopic cMTO and TPA on each side. Four parameters-working distance to lateral recess, surgical exposure area, angle of attack (AoA), and surgical freedom-were measured for each approach. Relevant osteological measurements in 10 dried human skulls were recorded. RESULTS: The mean distance from the superior margin of the lacrimal sac impression to the inferior margin of the trochlear fossa was 10.29 ± 1.13 mm, and that from the anterior ethmoidal artery foramina to the posterior lacrimal crest was 9.63 ± 1.23 mm. The mean exposure area around the LRSS was significantly higher in TPA (614.09 ± 40.38 mm2) than in cMTO (391.19 ± 59.01 mm2, P = .001). The mean AoA was 9.83° and 10.24° in the cMTO and TPA, respectively, in the craniocaudal direction (P = .529). In the horizontal plane, it was 9.29° and 10.76° (P = .012). There was no significant difference in surgical freedom between the cMTO and TPA (804.61 and 806.05 mm3, respectively; P = .993). CONCLUSION: Although comparatively limited exposure area, the cMTO approach has a similar AoA and surgical freedom as TPA and offers better visualization and ergonomic advantages. cMTO provides a feasible, less morbid, multiport technique for benign sphenoid sinus lateral recess pathologies.

RANK-L inhibitor as a promising agent for refractory extensive craniofacial fibrous dysplasia: A case report.

BACKGROUND: McCune-Albright syndrome is a rare disorder characterized by polyostotic fibrous dysplasia (FD), café-au-lait skin pigmentation, and endocrine dysfunction. Extensive FD in the craniofacial region can present significant challenges in terms of disease control and carries a high risk of permanent visual impairment. METHODS: We present a case of medically and surgically resistant FD that required nine optic nerve decompressions. RESULTS: The condition was ultimately controlled with the use of the denosumab agent. CONCLUSION: The case highlights the importance and potential efficacy of denosumab in resistant FD management, particularly in cases involving sensitive organs.

Endoscopic endonasal marsupialization of rathke cleft cysts: clinical outcomes and risk factors analysis of visual impairment, pituitary dysfunction, and CSF leak.

OBJECTIVE: This paper assesses the clinical and imaging characteristics, histopathological findings, and treatment outcomes of patients with Rathke's cleft cyst (RCC), as well as identifies potential risk factors for preoperative visual and pituitary dysfunction, intraoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak, and recurrence. Through analyzing these factors, the study aims to contribute to the current understanding of the management of RCCs and identify opportunities for improving patient outcomes. METHODS: We performed a retrospective analysis of 45 RCC patients between ages 18-80 treated by Endoscopic Endonasal Approach (EEA) and cyst marsupialization between 2010 and 2022 at a single institution. RESULTS: The median patient age was 34, and 73% were female. The mean follow-up was 70 ± 43 months. Preoperative visual impairment correlated with cyst diameter (OR = 1.41, 95% CI = 1.07 to 1.85, p-value = 0.01) and older age (OR = 1.06, 95% CI = 1.01 to 1.11, p-value = 0.02). Intraoperative CSF leaks were 11 times more likely for cysts ≥ 2 cm (OR = 11.3, 95% CI = 1.25 to 97.37, p-value = 0.03), with the odds of leakage doubling for every 0.1 cm increase in cyst size (OR = 1.41, 95% CI = 1.08 to 1.84, p-value = 0.01). Preoperative RCC appearing hypointense on T1 images demonstrated significantly higher CSF leak rates than hyperintense lesions (OR = 122.88, 95% CI = 1.5 to 10077.54, p-value = 0.03). Preoperative pituitary hypofunction was significantly more likely in patients with the presence of inflammation on histopathology (OR = 20.53, 95% CI = 2.20 to 191.45, p-value = 0.008 ) and T2 hyperintensity on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sequences (OR = 23.2, 95% CI = 2.56 to 211.02, p-value = 0.005). Notably, except for the hyperprolactinemia, no postoperative improvement was observed in pituitary function. CONCLUSION: Carefully considering risk factors, surgeons can appropriately counsel patients and deliver expectations for complications and long-term results. In contrast to preoperative visual impairment, preoperative pituitary dysfunction was found to have the least improvement post-surgery. It was the most significant permanent complication, with our data indicating the link to the cyst signal intensity on T2 MR and inflammation on histopathology. Earlier surgical intervention might improve the preservation of pituitary function.

A rare case of multifocal chordoma involving the lower clivus and multiple spine levels: illustrative case.

BACKGROUND: Chordomas are rare bone tumors originating from notochord remnants with a predilection for the median axis of the body, primarily in the sacrococcygeal spine, skull base, and cervical spine. This paper presents the first reported case of simultaneous multilevel chordomas with various enhancements. OBSERVATIONS: A 40-year-old woman presented with right-sided otalgia, headache, nasal obstruction, and facial pressure. The patient's head and spinal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrated a midline lesion in the clivus, C2, and T1-5 spinal levels. All lesions were T1 isointense and T2 hyperintense, consistent with chordoma. Interestingly, the clivus lesion was enhancing, whereas the C2 lesion was only slightly enhancing, and the rest of the lesions showed no enhancement. The patient underwent endoscopic endonasal transclival approach surgery for the clival lesion, followed by radiation to the surgical bed and the C2 lesion. The remaining lesions were monitored. Follow-up imaging showed stable disease in the C2 lesion and other lower lesions. The patient's severe pain in the posterior cervical spine was managed with cervical fusion, pain management, and physical therapy. LESSONS: This case underscores the importance of comprehensive spinal MRI in patients with chordomas, as multiple concurrent primaries may be present. The article summarizes the fundamental distinctions between ecchordosis physaliphora and chordoma and casts doubt on the capacity to always differentiate them.

A Novel Approach for the Treatment of Intractable Aspiration After Supracricoid Laryngectomy.

OBJECTIVES: This manuscript aims to present a novel and successful intervention for intractable aspiration following a supracricoid laryngectomy (SCL) that may avoid the need for total laryngectomy in patients experiencing intractable aspiration after SCL. STUDY DESIGN: This report describes a novel approach to treat intractable aspiration and feeding tube-dependency due to an incomplete posterior apposition of the laryngeal surface of the epiglottis to the arytenoids after a SCL in a 67-year-old man. METHODS: The right and left aryepiglottic folds and the median glossoepiglottic fold were denuded using a CO2 laser. Then, an arytenoepiglottopexy was completed by placing 4-0 Vicryl between the lateral aspect of the epiglottis and arytenoids; thus, approximating these structures. RESULTS: Two weeks after surgery, fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing demonstrated improved closure of the larynx upon swallowing with great upgrading in the Penetration-Aspiration scale (PAS). PAS improved from a 6 to 2, corresponding to, transient penetration for moderately thick liquids and puree solids. He also demonstrated improved secretion management and airway protection. Following a 4-week course of intensive dysphagia therapy, a modified barium swallow revealed a significant improvement in airway protection, with a PAS score of 1 (no airway invasion). CONCLUSIONS: Chronic aspiration is a life-threatening condition that can severely reduce patients' quality of life. Despite the use of current therapeutic approaches, a subset of patients will remain plagued by persistent symptoms. We introduce an innovative, simple, and quick endoscopic technique that offers benefit in controlling aspiration after SCL. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: NA.

A silent corticotroph adenoma: making the case for a pars intermedia origin. Illustrative case.

BACKGROUND: Silent corticotroph adenomas (SCAs) are the only pituitary adenomas thought to originate from the pars intermedia. This case report presents the rare finding of a multimicrocystic corticotroph macroadenoma displacing the anterior and posterior lobes of the pituitary gland on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This finding supports the hypothesis that silent corticotroph adenomas may originate from the pars intermedia and should be considered in the differential for tumors arising from this location. OBSERVATIONS: A 55-year-old man presented with an episode of confusion and blurred vision. MRI demonstrated separation of the anterior and posterior glands by a solid-cystic lesion located within the pars intermedia that superiorly displaced the optic chiasm. Endocrinologic evaluation was unremarkable. The differential diagnosis included pituitary adenoma, Rathke cleft cyst, and craniopharyngioma. The tumor was confirmed to be an SCA on pathology and was completely removed through the endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal approach. LESSONS: The case highlights the importance of preoperative screening for subclinical hypercortisolism for tumors arising from this location. Knowledge of a patient's preoperative functional status is critical and dictates their postoperative biochemical assessment to determine remission. The case also illustrates surgical strategies for resecting pars intermedia lesions without injuring the gland.

Endoscopic Endonasal Transcavernous Posterior Clinoidectomy With Inferior Hypophyseal Artery Preservation for a Cavernous Sinus Hemangioma: Technical Case Report.

BACKGROUND AND IMPORTANCE: Unilateral inferior hypophyseal artery (IHA) sacrifice is routinely performed during endoscopic endonasal transcavernous interdural posterior clinoidectomy. However, unilateral IHA sacrifice presents the risk of temporary postoperative diabetes insipidus. We present a case demonstrating the feasibility of endoscopic endonasal transcavernous posterior clinoidectomy without IHA sacrifice. CLINICAL PRESENTATION: A 62-year-old man presented with progressive weakness of his left oculomotor and abducens nerves. MRI of the brain revealed a small lesion suspicious for hemangioma in the posterior compartment of the left cavernous sinus. Following an endoscopic endonasal transcavernous approach using the interdural peeling technique, an IHA-sparing posterior clinoidectomy was performed to provide access to the tumor in the posterior cavernous sinus. After complete resection, the patient's symptoms improved and a diagnosis of cavernous sinus hemangioma was confirmed by histopathology. CONCLUSION: Unilateral IHA preservation may be performed safely when performing a transcavernous interdural posterior clinoidectomy. IHA preservation can be readily achieved if the artery is redundant, the lesion is small and located in the posterior cavernous sinus, and there is a short posterior clinoid, ultimately avoiding the risk of transient postoperative diabetes insipidus.

Spontaneous rhinorrhea: a possible concealing initial symptom of ecchordosis physaliphora. Illustrative case.

BACKGROUND: Spontaneous rhinorrhea may be the initial manifestation of ecchordosis physaliphora (EP). There are currently 47 published cases of symptomatic EP, with spontaneous rhinorrhea being one of the most prevalent symptoms. The authors report 1 case as a cause of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) fistula. OBSERVATIONS: A 46-year-old woman presented to the authors' clinic with meningitis secondary to nasal CSF leakage. The computed tomography (CT) scan indicated an imperceptibly thin/dehiscent focus along the posterior wall of the sphenoid air cell's midline. A tumor was identified during endoscopic endonasal CSF repair surgery. EP was diagnosed in the frozen and final pathology. LESSONS: EP should be considered as a potential cause of spontaneous rhinorrhea. This initial clinical manifestation accounts for 35% of symptomatic EP cases. The prepontine and posterior sphenoid sinus wall appear to be the locations with the highest susceptibility. Surgical therapy of the fistula without excision of the lesion may result in insufficient issue resolution and recurrence.

Endoscopic Multiport Approach for Exenteration of the Infratemporal Fossa.

OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate anatomic relationships pertinent to the endoscopic multiport approach to the infratemporal fossa (ITF). Discuss advantages and limitations of each individual approach. STUDY DESIGN: Cadaveric study. METHODS: Endoscopic and endoscopic-assisted endonasal transpterygoid, sublabial transmaxillary, endoscopic transorbital, and endoscopic transoral approaches to accessing the ITF were completed in five silicone-injected fresh cadaveric specimens (10 sides) with the assistance of 0, 30, and 450 rods-lens endoscopes. Image guidance was used to confirm and document the anatomical relationships encountered in each approach. RESULTS: The endonasal endoscopic transpterygoid approach provides better visualization and more direct exposure to median structures. Endoscopic-assisted sublabial transmaxillary approach enhances the field of exposure, angle of attack, and ease of instrumentation to the lateral part of the ITF. Endoscopic-assisted transorbital approach via the inferior orbital fissure provided cephalic and anterior access. Endoscopic-assisted transoral approach complements the access to lesions extending inferior to the hard palate or far lateral to the mandibular condyle. CONCLUSIONS: A combination of minimal access infratemporal approaches can provide adequate exposure of the entire ITF while avoiding some of the morbidity associated with open approaches. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: NA Laryngoscope, 133:1367-1374, 2023.