Objective: To introduce a endoscopic surgical approach for hypo-clivus chordoma, and to explore the clinical value of the endoscopic resection of hypo-clivus chordoma.
Methods: Three hypo-clivus chordoma were resected by endoscopic transoral tans-posteriorwall pharynx approach.
Results: The MR image showed that total removal of the tumor was achieved in 2 patients and subtotal resection was received in one patient. No severe postoperative complications and sequelae occurred. In 6 months to 2 years' follow-up, the MRI showed that 2 patients had no residue tumor, and one patient died due to recurrence of the tumor 1 year after operation.
Conclusion: The endoscopic transoral tans-posteriorwall pharynx approach might be valuable in the treatment of the hypo-clivus chordoma. The use of the endoscope allows for direct access to the hypo-clivus lesions while minimizing the chances of surrounding anatomic structure injury. In addition, this approach has the advantages of quick recovery, avoidance of catastrophic complications and sequelae. Especially, various angle view of the endoscope provides a panoramic view of the hypo-clivus, thus exposing and resecting hide lesion which can not be exposed by other approaches. This approach might facilitate complete resection of the chordoma with maximal preservation of normal tissues.