The Complex Frontier: Skull Base & Reconstructive Surgery What is Skull Base Surgery? Skull base surgery is a highly specialized field focused on treating tumours and abnormalities located on the underside of the brain and the deepest structures of the head. Our centre utilizes Endoscopic Endonasal Surgery (EES), a "no-scar" technique where the surgeon reaches the skull base through the nostrils using high-definition cameras, as well as traditional open approaches when necessary. [Image showing the endoscopic approach through the nasal cavity to the pituitary gland and skull base] In complex cases where a large tumour is removed, we perform Microvascular Reconstructive Surgery. This involves "free tissue transfer," where healthy tissue (skin, muscle, or bone) is taken from another part of the body and transplanted to the head or neck. Our surgeons use operating microscopes to connect tiny blood vessels, ensuring the new tissue has a live blood supply to restore both function and appearance. Why is this Procedure Personally Vital for You? Procedures in this region protect the most sensitive "wiring" of the human body, including the nerves for vision, hearing, and facial movement. This pathway is personally vital for you if: You Have a Pituitary or Sinus Tumour: If a growth is pressing against the optic nerves or brain, an endoscopic skull base approach offers the safest route for removal without brain retraction. You Require Structural Reconstruction: If previous surgery or trauma has left a defect, microvascular reconstruction restores the barrier between the brain and the nasal cavity, preventing infections like meningitis. Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Leak Repair: If you have clear fluid leaking from your nose, specialized skull base techniques are required to "plug" the leak and stabilize intracranial pressure. To Preserve Cranial Nerve Function: Our multidisciplinary team (ENT and Neurosurgery) works together to ensure that even complex tumours are removed with the highest priority placed on preserving your ability to smile, speak, and see. The Path to Neurological Stability and Recovery The goal of the Skull Base pathway is the total stabilization of the cranial environment while ensuring the integrity of the reconstructive "flap." This pathway is designed to: Provide Intraoperative Nerve Monitoring: We use real-time "electromyography" during surgery to track your facial and cranial nerves, ensuring they are protected throughout the procedure. Ensure Clinical Readiness through Rigorous Screening: Due to the complexity of the vascular and neurological systems involved, we require a full medical history, diagnostic X-rays (specifically a chest X-ray and CT Angiography for vascular mapping), and comprehensive blood tests (including coagulation profiles, electrolytes, and blood cross-matching for surgical safety). A Focused Recovery and Stabilization Window: The healing of the skull base and the success of microvascular tissue "takes" require meticulous monitoring of blood flow and pressure. We focus on a 2–3 week recovery and stabilization period. This window is essential for the new tissue to integrate, for the "watertight" seal of the brain to be confirmed, and for our medical board to ensure that your neurological and respiratory functions are perfectly stabilized before you transition to rehabilitation. [Image showing a microvascular surgeon using a microscope to connect tiny blood vessels in a reconstructive flap] All details are subject to doctor evaluation for the final treatment plan.