Minimally invasive skull base surgery
Endoscopic skull base surgery
If you have a tumour which can be treated with minimally invasive skull base surgery, our surgeons can treat you
About skull base surgery
Minimally invasive skull base surgery can treat a range of brain and certain spinal injuries. If you have a growth or abnormality on the underside of the brain (skull base), it can very difficult to reach.
Using an endoscope, our surgeons and other specialists are able to remove these growths.
Using an endoscope, our surgeons and other specialists are able to remove these growths.
Need to know
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What happens during surgery? icon plus
Minimally invasive skull base surgery is carried out under general anaesthetic. Your consultant's surgical techniques may vary, however, they may do the following.
- Make a small incision on the inside of your nose, through the eyebrow, in the temple or just behind your ear. This will allow them to pass an endoscope (thin tube with a camera on the end) through the area, underneath or alongside the brain. They will then be able to see images of your skull base on a screen.
- Your surgeon will remove any growth with surgical instruments.
- The surgical opening will be closed, sometimes this requires fat and fibrous tissue (fascia) to be taken from your thigh through a separate small incision. -
How to prepare icon plus
Your consultant will explain the procedure to you in detail and answer any questions you may have.
The nature of the treatment means you will likely MRI and/or CT scans beforehand. This is to help your consultant assess the anatomy of your skull base in more detail before surgery.
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After surgery icon plus
Immediately after surgery, you will wake up in a recovery area. Whilst here, you'll have your blood pressure, heart rate and oxygen levels monitored. You may then be moved to a regular room where our nurses can continue to check on you.
You'll be able to eat and drink as normal. Some patients can go home within two to three days of surgery. Your consultant will arrange a follow-up appointment for you and let you know when you can get back to your usual routine, including work or exercise. If you experience pain or any discomfort after your procedure, they will of course provide you with the appropriate medication.
Our consultants
We're proud to work with leading surgeons who experience across a range of medical fields, whose skills are matched by their integrity and compassion.
Our locations
From complex neurosurgery to neurology diagnostic tests and procedures, we provide exceptional neurosciences care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
Request an appointment
Our team can help with any enquiries or you can make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.
Call us today
020 7079 4344
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.