Endoscopic resection of ossifying fibroma involving paranasal sinuses and the skull base in a series of 15 cases.

CONCLUSION: The key technical challenges in the resection of OFs are rapid removal of tumors by image-guided navigation, determining the boundary of the resection and the proper control of blood supply through the anterior or posterior ethmoidal arteries.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to analyze the clinical data of adult patients with paranasal ossifying fibromas involving the anterior skull base and orbit. The surgical technique and indications are also discussed.

METHODS: This study reviewed the clinical data of 15 patients (age >16 years) who underwent resection of paranasal ossifying fibromas involving the anterior skull base and orbit by endoscopic surgery with an image guidance system between October 2006 and October 2014.

RESULTS: The mean age of the 15 patients was 33.2 years (range = 16-58 years). All tumors were completely resected via endoscopic surgery. Intra-operative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks (four cases) were repaired endoscopically. The mean follow-up duration was 43.1 months. One patient lost vision after surgery, recurrence was observed in two patients, one underwent a third excision 8 years after the second surgery, and the other exhibited residual osteoarthritis 3 years after the first surgery and remained under regular observation. One patient was lost to follow-up.