Locations of Tumors

Based on the location of the tumor and the type of tumor, your neurosurgeon will make a decision about whether to use a minimally-invasive approach or a traditional approach to removing the tumor.

Possible locations for skull base tumors:

For description purposes, the skull base can be divided into 3 main parts:

1. Anterior cranial base
2. Middle cranial base
3. Posterior cranial base

1. Anterior cranial fossa  (front skull base)
   The anterior cranial fossa, or front skull base, is also known as the base of the skull. Important nerves in this area include those responsible for vision and the sense of smell.
    
   Meningiomas are the most common types of tumors found in this region of the skull base. These benign tumors extend through the bone and down into the bones of the face. Other types of tumors commonly found in the anterior fossa are pituitary and olfactory lesions.
    
   Depending on the how the surgeons reach the tumor, your neurosurgeon may be required to gently remove the brain from the skull base. This way, the tumor and some of the bone can be removed.
    
2. Middle cranial fossa (skull base sides)
   The middle cranial fossa is also known as the sides of the base of the skull. Critical nerves in this area include those responsible for moving your eyes, as well as facial sensation. In addition, critical blood vessels, such as the internal carotid artery, course through this part of the skull to enter the brain. This is a complicated part of the skull, and often, both a neurosurgeon and otolaryngologist will operate together, using a multidisciplinary approach.
    
3. Posterior cranial fossa (back of the skull base)
   The posterior cranial fossa, or the back of the skull base, contains the brainstem and the cerebellum in addition to those nerves responsible for facial expression, hearing and balance, taste, swallowing, speaking and breathing. This area of the skull can be approached through the ear, jaw and sometimes through the mouth.
     
   Depending on the approach, your neurosurgeon may work with an otolaryngologist to minimize damage to the surrounding bone and tissues.  

Example of common lesions includes: