| Abstract [eng] |
Endoscopic transnasal approach has become the preferred way of resecting skull base tumors. Advances in technology have led to increased resection rates, better neurovascular outcomes and shorter hospital stays. However, postoperative cerebrospinal fluid leak still remains a challenge as it is one of the most frequently occurring complications that represents a risk factor for developing life-threatening conditions such as meningitis or pneumocephalus. In order to avoid these postoperative complications an adequate repair of the skull base deffect is required. Novel reconstruction techniques such as pedicled naso-septal flap have significantly reduced the rate of cerebrospinal fluid leaks and increased the number of patients that could benefit from this minimaly invasive procedure. In this review I present some the most recent studies overviewing closure methods of the deffect after endoscopic transsphenoidal pituitary surgery, the risk factors of postoperative cerebrospinal fluid leak and complications related to it. Moreover, I will introduce the protocol used in our Santaros Klinikos center and the results collected since 2015-06-02. |
