[Transnasal endoscopic repair of nasal-skull base defect: 69 cases].

OBJECTIVE

To summarize the experience of transnasal endoscopic repair of nasal-skull base defect.

METHODS

The clinical data of 69 patients with transnasal endoscopic repair of skull base defect from January 1998 to June 2006 were analyzed retrospectively. The causes, sites of defect and the effect and key technique of transnasal endoscopic repair were investigated.

RESULTS

All patients were followed-up for 6 months to 11 years. The causes were mainly traumatic fracture, occupying lesions and iatrogenic trauma. The sites were mainly in ethmoid sinus and sphenoid sinus. The success rate of one attempt was 91.3% (63/69), the ultimate success rate was 95.7% (66/69).

CONCLUSIONS

Transnasal endoscopic repair of skull base defect may be the best approach. Debriding and raw edge of defect area and "inlay-plug" method are of key technique. The liber muscle and fascia are ideal repair material.