[Surgical simulation on the lateral skull base]. / Chirurgische Simulation an der Laterobasis.

Critical neurovascular structures are confined in a small bony space at the lateral skull base. Thus, high quality of surgical training and planning of minimally invasive procedures is crucial. Simulation of lateral skull base procedures can improve motor skills, anatomical orientation, and complication management in a safe environment. Thus, simulation training can be beneficial for skull base surgeons. Minimally invasive interventions at the lateral skull base are under research, and several authors have presented approaches through single or multiple drilled ports. Precise planning and simulation of such interventions is essential because even submillimeter errors can lead to damage to critical anatomical structures. Therefore, high demands have been set for the accuracy of computer-assisted surgery.