Endoscopic-assisted cranionasal resection of olfactory neuroblastoma

Background. Cranionasal resection was first described in 1997 for the surgical resection of olfactory neuroblastoma. The endoscopic transnasal approach is used in cranionasal resection to replace the more invasive craniofacial resection. It has the advantages of avoiding the facial wound and its associated pain, swelling, and scar. The authors have routinely practiced cranionasal resection since 1996 for resection of all anterior skull base tumors in which the resultant skull base bony defect is limited to the nasal and sinus roof. The aim of this study was to review the results of cranionasal resection for olfactory neuroblastoma. Methods. The results of cranionasal resection for olfactory neuroblastoma in six patients from 1996 to 2003 were reviewed. Results. The Kadesh stages were 3A, 2B, and 1C. None of the patients had postoperative complications. Postoperative radiotherapy was given only to the patient with Kadesh stage C disease. There were no local recurrences. Two patients died of lung metastasis. Conclusions. Cranionasal resection is a safe and adequate procedure. Postoperative radiotherapy is not necessary after clear resection of Kadesh A and B tumors. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 27: XXX–XXX, 2005