The Use of Navigation System in Sinonasal Osteosarcoma Involving the Skull Base

Introduction Osteosarcomasof the skull base are rare tumors with slow growth and aggressive behavior. Their response to radiotherapy is minimal, and the treatment of choice is complete surgical resection of a tumor. Due to the existence of high risk anatomic and surgical landmarks, the use of navigation system is advisable in these cases. Material and method We present an update of the literature concerning osteosarcomas of the skull base and their surgical endoscopic management, and describe analytically the advantages of using navigation system when approaching these patients. We support the statements made by presenting an eloquent clinical case. Results and conclusions We wish to highlight the important role of navigation systems in the surgical management of osteosarcomas involving the skull base. The risk of creating a skull base defect and damaging dura mater and brain are considerable when dealing with large tumors. For this reason, accurate control of the tip of the surgical instrument, and constant verification of anatomic risk elements are mandatory.