Skull base surgery for malignant tumors: The 2nd international collaborative study (1995–2015)

Background The current study presents the effort of a global collaborative group to review the management and outcomes of malignant tumors of the skull base worldwide. Patients and methods A total of 28 institutions contributed data on 3061 patients. Analysis evaluated clinical variables, survival outcomes, and multivariable factors associated with outcomes. Results The median age was 56 years (IQR 44–67). The open surgical approach was used in 55% (n = 1680) of cases, endoscopic resection was performed in 36% (n = 1087), and the combined approach in 9.6% (n = 294). With a median follow‐up of 7.1 years, the 5‐year OS DSS and RFS were 65%, 71.7% and 53%, respectively. On multivariable analysis, older age, comorbidities, histology, dural/intracranial involvement, positive margins, advanced stage, and primary site were independent prognostic factors for OS, DSS, and RFS. Adjuvant RT was a protective prognostic factor. Conclusion The progress across various disciplines may have contributed to improved OS and DSS in this study compared to previous reports.