Endoscopic Endonasal Approach to the Odontoid Pathologies

Endoscopic endonasal odontoidectomy has proven to be safe and effective in selected patients. Soft and hard palate preservation dramatically reduces the risk of postoperative velopharyngeal insufficiency. Moreover, the endonasal endoscopic approach provides a direct access to the dens. Three-dimensional high-definition endoscope, laser, and ultrasound bony curettes revealed to be useful tools for this approach that, however, remains a demanding one.