Craniofacial resection of anterior skull base tumours: Factors contributing to success

Background: A case series of 20 consecutive patients followed for a minimum of 54 months following craniofacial resection of anterior skull base tumours is presented, with the aim of identifying complications and factors influencing survival. Methods: A retrospective review of a case series of 20 consecutive patients was carried out. Results: Dural invasion was significantly correlated with poorer survival. There was also a tendency for tumour grade and positive resection margins to be associated with poorer outcome. Most local recurrences occurred within 6 months of surgery, with the exception of adenocarcinoma of the ethmoids, in which recurrence occurred up to 36 months postoperatively. A variety of complications were encountered, with a marked decrease in serious complications from midway through the series. Conclusions: The change in pattern of complications may be indicative of a learning curve, or the discontinuation of the use of lumbar drainage.