ABSTRACT
The evolution of skull base surgery has provided an intersection between various surgical specialities including neurosurgery, otolaryngology surgery, ophthalmology, oncology, radiology, head and neck surgery, as well as craniofacial and reconstructive surgery. In addition to this, the last decade has seen dramatic advances in surgical technique, neuronavigation and optics; including the triple chip cameras, endoscopic 3D systems and high-definition screens, providing both precise surgical resection, as well as preservation of surrounding neurovascular structures. In this chapter, the authors detail both intra-operative and post-operative complications of skull base surgery. The primary vessels at risk during lateral skull base surgery are the basilar artery and the anterior inferior cerebellar artery (AICA). Major vascular complications in anterior skull base surgery primarily affect the carotid within the sphenoid sinus, particularly in transphenoidal surgery for patients with acromegaly. Due to the inherent close relationship of the eyes, as well as their neurovascular supply, to skull base surgery, there are clear risks to vision.
