European journal of surgical oncology : the journal of the European Society of Surgical Oncology and the British Association of Surgical Oncology
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To test the versatility and usefulness of a prototype rigid endoscope with a continuously variable-view-angle tip (Endochamaeleon, Karl Storz, Tuttlingen, Germany) with regard to field of vision and applicability for endoscopic assisted neurosurgery. ⋯ The EC provided superior usability and visualization potential compared to standard rigid endoscopes with fixed angulation. It combines the ergonomic and safety advantage of not having to insert endoscopes with different angles with the opportunity to "scan" the surgical field with a variable angle of 0 degrees -120 degrees within one plane of view.
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The microsurgical resection of tumors or vascular lesions in the cavernous sinus and the neighbouring Meckel's cave has been considered as hazardous because of often associated cranial nerve morbidity. Despite increasing consent that many of such tumors should not undergo surgical therapy, the cavernous sinus and Meckel's cave may harbour small lesions of various origin, which are amenable for surgical resection. Surgery in this anatomical area needs a well directed approach. In this setting, neuronavigational guidance may provide a useful tool. We report on a series of patients operated on and guided by neuronavigation. ⋯ The surgical resection of small tumors or vascular lesions within the Meckel's cave or cavernous sinus is facilitated by neuronavigational guidance with sufficient intraoperative reliability and safety. In consideration of well known anatomical landmarks, targeted entry into the cavernous sinus or Meckel's cave directed by neuronavigation enables a tailored approach for microsurgical resection.