Endoscopic Transseptal Approach with Bilateral Nasoseptal Flap in Challenging Skull-Base Tumors

OBJECTIVE: We sought to examine the utility of an endoscopic transseptal approach and creation of a bilateral nasoseptal flap using a 2-nostrils/4-hands technique in patients with challenging skull-base tumors. METHODS: The medical records of patients operated on via an endoscopic transseptal approach between 2009 and 2017 were retrospectively reviewed. Two patients with ossifying fibroma, 2 with orbital hemangioma, 2 with trigeminal nerve schwannoma, and 1 patient each with juvenile angiofibroma, meningioma, and myxofibrosarcoma were included in the study. The surgical technique and endoscopic anatomy are presented. RESULTS: The mean age of the 4 male and 5 female patients was 39.9 +/- 14.8 years. By using this technique, all 7 tumors were resected with minimal nasal morbidity after a mean follow-up of 15.2 +/- 9.4 months. CONCLUSIONS: The endoscopic transseptal approach, by creation of a bilateral nasoseptal flap using a 2-nostrils/4-hands technique, improves surgical visualization and increases instrument maneuverability. Surgical access to challenging skull-base tumors is therefore afforded. The procedure also reduces nasal morbidity by preserving the lacrimal apparatus and anterior maxilla structures and avoiding septal perforation and traumatic nose traction.