Endoscopic endonasal decompression of the optic nerve in the setting of compressive lesions: how I do it.

Abstract

Many lesions in the anterior skull base may compress the optic nerve (ON), leading to vision loss, and even irreversible blindness. Although decompression of the optic nerve has traditionally been achieved transcranially, the endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA) is gaining traction as a minimally invasive approach recently. We describe the key steps of an EEA ON decompression. The relevant surgical anatomy with illustration is described. Additionally, a video detailing our technique and instruments on an illustrative case is provided. Endoscopic endonasal approach ON decompression with a straight feather blade is a feasible, minimally invasive procedure to decompress the ON in the setting of anterior skull base mass lesions.