Original Research

Simultaneous two-team transorbital neuroendoscopic approach for sphenoid wing meningioma

Lien Deschuytere, Estelle Beneke, Byron De John, Darlene Lubbe
Journal of the Colleges of Medicine of South Africa | Vol 3, No 1 | a224 | DOI: https://doi.org/10.4102/jcmsa.v3i1.224 | © 2025 Lien Deschuytere, Estelle Beneke, Byron De John, Darlene Lubbe | This work is licensed under CC Attribution 4.0
Submitted: 13 May 2025 | Published: 25 July 2025

About the author(s)

Lien Deschuytere, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
Estelle Beneke, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa; and, Pennsylvania State University, State College, United States of America
Byron De John, Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
Darlene Lubbe, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa

Abstract

Background: Surgery for skull base lesions is often time-consuming. In this research, we aimed to improve the efficiency of transorbital neuroendoscopic surgery (TONES) for skull base lesions, specifically sphenoid wing meningiomas, by reducing operative time without compromising patient safety or surgical outcomes.


Methods: A simultaneous two-team surgical approach was developed, combining medial endonasal and lateral transorbital techniques. One team performed medial endonasal optic canal decompression, while the other conducted a lateral transorbital middle cranial fossa approach through a superior eyelid incision. Teams worked concurrently, pausing only during critical stages of medial optic nerve decompression to prevent interference.


Results: The two-team approach demonstrated a significant reduction in operative time compared to sequential techniques. This method allowed for a comprehensive tumour resection and optic nerve decompression within a single procedure, achieving minimal morbidity and a rapid recovery for patients.


Conclusion: The simultaneous two-team approach enhances the efficiency of TONES for sphenoid wing meningiomas and similar skull base lesions.


Contribution: This technique offers a practical and safe solution to streamline complex multiportal surgeries while maintaining optimal clinical outcomes.


Keywords

rhinology; endoscopic sinus surgery; skull base surgery; anterior skull base; neurosurgery; ophthalmology; meningioma; skull base lesions

Sustainable Development Goal

Goal 3: Good health and well-being

Metrics

Total abstract views: 785
Total article views: 1118


Crossref Citations

No related citations found.