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Endoscopic Skull Base Surgery in Children

  • PEDIATRIC OTOLARYNGOLOGY: Challenges in Pediatric Otolaryngology (W-C Hsu, Section Editor)
  • Published:
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

Pediatric endoscopic skull base surgery (ESBS) is a field of practice that has seen significant advancement and widespread adoption from its initial description less than two decades ago. This manuscript aims to review the development of the technique with particular attention to how our knowledge of the field has increased within the past 5 years.

Recent Findings

The understanding of the anatomic nuances in the pediatric endonasal corridor has grown, especially regarding the impact of sphenoid pneumatization on outcomes and the intercarotid distance at the sella. In addition, more robust data on outcomes has shown that ESBS is safe and effective in the pediatric population. In particular, the use of the nasoseptal flap has been more successful in younger patients than previously shown. Finally, studies have shown the minimal impact of ESBS on craniofacial development.

Summary

Pediatric ESBS is minimally invasive and safe and has good patient outcomes.

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Papers of particular interest, published recently, have been highlighted as: •   Of importance •• Of major importance

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Funding

Internal departmental funding was utilized without commercial sponsorship or support.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA

    Christopher M. Low & Peter H. Hwang

  2. Division of Rhinology-Sinus and Skull Base Surgery, Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, 801 Welch Road, Palo Alto, CA, 94305, USA

    Christopher M. Low & Peter H. Hwang

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Correspondence to Peter H. Hwang.

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Low, C.M., Hwang, P.H. Endoscopic Skull Base Surgery in Children. Curr Otorhinolaryngol Rep 10, 440–446 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40136-022-00432-3

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