Resection the tumor in fronto-orbito-ethmoidal region via extend external frontal and ethmoidal sinus approach

OBJECTIVE To introduce a better surgical approach for resection the tumor in the fronto- orbito-ethmoidal region.METHODS Extend external frontal and ethmoidal sinus approach was used in the unhealthy side.The incision can be extended to the nasal side or outward to the superciliary arch according to the tumors extent and size so as to get a full exposure of tumors in the anterior skull base, fronto-orbito-ethmoidal region,or exterior superior margin of the orbit.RESULTS From Jan.1998 to Dec. 2003,28 patients suffered from tumors in the anterior skull base and orbito-ethmoidal region received tumors resection through this approach.Postoperatively,no death or recurrence occurred up to now in 8 cases with benign tumors.The 1-,3-and 5-year survival rate was 95%(19120),61.5%(8/13)and 57.1%(4/7)respectively in 20 cases with malignant tumors.CONCLUSION This approach provide good exposure and has the advantages of little bleeding,clear operation field, easy to operate,convenient to re-establish skull base, less surgical trauma and mild reaction.We believe this approach is a better method for resection of tumors in anterior skull base and the fronto-orbito-ethmoidal region.