Endoscopic Procedures
Endoscopy allows neurosurgeons to reach regions in the brain through minimally invasive approaches. Such areas were previously accessible only by extensive and invasive approaches which required opening of the skull and risked damage to normal brain tissue thus limiting the ability to see the areas of interest. During this procedure, thin tubes called endoscopes are inserted through one or two small incisions in the skull or through an opening in the body(nostril). This tube-like instrument contains a small camera that allows the neurosurgeon to see detailed images of the problem area in the brain. This approach helps the surgeon assess brain not only through skull, but also through pathways like the nose and sinuses as well.
Benefits:
Minimally invasive (results in less pain for the patient)
Faster recovery time than open brain surgery
Reduced risk of brain trauma
Reduced risk of side effects
Reduced hospital stays
Applications:
Pituitary tumours
Craniopharyngioma
Skull base meningioma
CSF leak
Chordoma
Epidermoid
Hydrocephalus
Third ventricle tumours
Spine pathologies (herniated discs)
Commonly performed procedures:
Endoscopic third ventriculostomy
Endoscopic trans nasal trans sphenoidal surgery
Extended endoscopic procedures
Endoscopic assisted transcranial procedures
