Dr. Pete Batra performing endoscopic
skull base surgery

Skull base disorders present unique challenges. The area is complex, involving the bony shelf that separates the brain from the eye sockets, nasal cavities, ear canals and upper neck. Major nerves, blood vessels and other structures pass through this area. By combining a multi-disciplinary approach with the latest techniques and technology, the UT Southwestern Comprehensive Skull Base Program meets the difficult demands of treating disorders in this area.

Our physicians have extensive experience in the latest minimally-invasive techniques that have revolutionized the field of skull base surgery. Many formerly inoperable tumors can now be reached using a telescope through the patient’s nasal passages without the need for facial incisions. Surgery can be performed with minimal brain manipulation, thus minimizing complications and preserving normal neurologic and facial function.

The UT Southwestern Comprehensive Skull Base Program also specializes in the removal of tumors involving the ear, brain and lateral skull base. We offer innovative lateral skull base approaches using the latest in image guidance and microsurgical techniques. Our goal is tumor removal with preservation of normal function.

Dr. Barnett standing in the skull base
surgery operative suite.

To properly treat these disorders, UT Southwestern utilizes a multi-disciplinary team of physicians from a range of specialties – otorhinolaryngology (head and neck surgery), neurosurgery, neuro-ophthalmology, neuro-oncology, radiation oncology, interventional radiology and pathology – who carefully coordinate the care and treatment of patients. Cases are presented at the monthly skull base conference to develop an individualized treatment plan for each patient.

In addition, evaluation and treatments are coordinated with the Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, so patients can see all the physicians involved in their care in one setting.

Skull Base Disorders

The UT Southwestern team is experienced in diagnosis and management of a wide range of skull base disorders, such as:

• Meningioma
• Acoustic neuroma
• Glomus tumors
• Sinus cancer
• Pituitary tumors
• CSF leak
• Orbital tumors

Excellence in Care

Leksell Gamma Knife Radiosurgery Suite

Skull base surgery patients can be assured they are receiving the best care possible. UT Southwestern is recognized as one of the world’s premier neurological surgery centers with a state-of-the-art intensive care unit. Our physicians can make precise preoperative plans through imaging with high-definition magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scanners. Image guidance technology is used to achieve precise surgical goals. In many instances, tumor removal can be achieved with minimal disturbance to the surrounding normal structures.

In addition, our program offers:

• Lateral skull base procedures;
• Removal of skull base tumors in a combined procedure performed by neurosurgeons and head and neck surgeons (craniofacial resection);
• State-of-the-art radiation therapy technology, such as,
  • Cyberknife (stereotactic body radiation therapy),
  • Gamma Knife,
  • Image-guided radiation therapy,
  • Intensity-modulated radiation therapy; and,
• Ancillary services such as audiology, vestibular testing and rehabilitation, and facial nerve rehabilitation.

Patient Support

Skull base surgery patients are provided support throughout the entire process of diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation.

Physician Expertise

The program’s physicians are nationally-recognized experts in both clinical care and research. UT Southwestern has one of the few fellowship-trained physicians in Texas who has advanced training in endoscopic skull base surgery. In addition, UT Southwestern is one of the few centers in the country performing auditory brainstem implants. The team also participates in a variety of clinical trials related to skull disorders.