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Endoscopic resection of skull base tumours utilising the ultrasonic dissector

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  12 April 2012

D E Lubbe*
Affiliation:
Division of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Cape Town, South Africa
N Fisher-Jeffes
Affiliation:
Division of Neurosurgery, University of Cape Town, South Africa
P Semple
Affiliation:
Division of Neurosurgery, University of Cape Town, South Africa
*
Address for correspondence: Dr Darlene E Lubbe, Principal Specialist, Division of Otorhinolaryngology, H53, OMB, Groote Schuur Hospital, Anzio Rd, Observatory, Cape Town, 7925, Groote Schuur, South Africa E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract

Objective:

We report the use and benefits of the ultrasonic dissector in the resection of difficult skull base lesions.

Method:

Five case reports are presented, and the utilisation of ultrasonic dissectors in otorhinolaryngology is reviewed.

Results:

The ultrasonic dissector was found to be a useful tool during the endoscopic resection of poorly accessible skull base tumours. Safe dissection and complete removal of all five lesions were achieved without any vascular injury. To our knowledge, this is the first report of the use of the ultrasonic dissector for the resection of sinonasal and skull base tumours.

Conclusion:

The ultrasonic dissector was found to be particularly useful during the endoscopic transnasal approach to the petrous apex. During minimally invasive endonasal surgery, benefits include the length of the instrument, speed and precision of dissection, and low risk of vascular injury.

Type
Clinical Records
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 2012

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References

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