Skull Base Approaches to Brain Tumors

The use of skull base approaches to access difficult cranial base tumors has gained popularity in the last 2 decades. The increasing use of skull base procedures can be attributed to the recognition of complications related to excessive brain retraction in more traditional approaches, improved understanding of the cranial base surgical anatomy, interdisciplinary team approach, technical advancements in micro-surgery and anesthesia, and the use of high-speed drills. This article reviews some of the commonly used skull base approaches, and their indications and operative techniques.