What does the term skull base mean?
The term “skull base” refers to the bottom of the skull or the plate of bone upon which the brain sits.
The skull base, one of the most complex anatomical regions of the body, is the bony surface beneath the brain which also forms the eye sockets, the roof of the nasal cavity, some of the sinuses, and the bones that surround the inner ear. The skull base also has an opening known as the foramen magnum, which allows the spinal cord and various blood vessels and nerves to pass through to the brain.
The following bones make up the skull base:
The skull base can be subdivided into the following parts:
What is the purpose of skull base surgery?
Skull base surgery is performed to remove noncancer and cancer growths and abnormalities on the brain's underside. At the Cedars Sinai Marina del Rey Hospital, our neurosurgeons offer particular expertise in the procedures available to treat these tumors. Our neurosurgeons use special instruments inserted through the skull’s natural openings (nose, mouth and above the eyes) to operate rather than accessing the brain through a surgical opening of the skull (craniotomy).
Some conditions that can be treated with skull base surgery include:
Disclaimer: We do not assume responsibility for the use of the provided information or its interpretation. Our efforts are towards providing current and reliable information; however these should not be considered, or used as a substitute for diagnosis or treatment.
Source: https://www.cedars-sinai.edu/
Related Questions About Otolaryngology
Anyone can develop this condition, but the most vulnerable people are those with a weak immune system.
See full answerThe term “skull base” refers to the bottom of the skull or the plate of bone upon which the brain sits.
See full answerBalloon sinuplasty is a minimally invasive procedure and is virtually painless.
See full answerWhen your sinus infection doesn’t respond to treatment with antibiotics and symptoms are not receding, your doctor might indicate surgery as the best option to correct your sinus condition.
See full answerIt could be possible, but there are better methods with fewer post-operative complications.
See full answerThe durability of the reconstructed ears relies upon the materials used for the procedure.
See full answerMost patients will require some assistance after discharge. Home health care is often necessary. Depending on your condition, a short stay at a nursing facility may be an option but most often this is not necessary.
See full answer