A summary of all facets of this new and rapidly developing field in neurosurgery. Besides neuroendoscopy, the books main topics are neuronavigation, functional neurosurgery, radiosurgery, neurotransplantation, and molecular neurosurgery. Provides a thorough overview of the state of the art and future perspectives in minimally invasive neurosurgery.

Recognized clinical leaders in neurosurgery and neuroradiology review the cutting-edge techniques and technologies now available and describe how minimally invasive techniques have influenced their subspecialties. On the radiology side, the authors explain the latest developments in magnetic resonance spectroscopy, functional imaging, and brain mapping, with emphasis on the application of image navigation directly in the operating room, using both preoperative and intraoperative systems. On the surgical side, some of the world's leading surgeons in pediatric neurosurgery, cerebrovascular surgery, neurosurgical oncology, spinal and peripheral nerve surgery, and trauma surgery detail how they use the powerful new minimally invasive techniques in the own practices. Among the novel approaches discussed are radiofrequency, radiosurgery, thermal therapy, and minimally invasive techniques that allow "molecular neurosurgery" via gene and viral vectors and local delivery systems.

Classically defined as the art of curing by the hand, hand intended as the organ of the possible, and positive certitude according to Paul Valery, surgery is shifting toward a scientific discipline with a very high technological valence. Neurosurgery in general, and skull base surgery in particular do not stave off this natural evolution. Obviously, technological advances have driven the tremendous progresses in both diagnosis (CT scan, MRI, angiography ) and therapeutic fields (ultrasonic aspiration, radiosurgery). This technological aspect should not hide the humanistic remnant of the modern neurosurgeon, who should propose the less invasive technique in his possession to treat most efficiently his patient, keeping in mind the quality of life above all. The compromise between the invasiveness of the surgical approach to the skull base and the main goal of the surgery has shed light on the recent concept of minimally invasive skull base surgery.This concept has been conspicuously initiated by Axel Perneczky in the late 1980s under the descriptive keyhole neurosurgery, especially through the renowned eyebrow supra-orbital mini-craniotomy and the implementation of endoscope-assisted microneurosurgery. A decade after, Jho and others introduced the endoscopic endonasal approaches to the skull base, with a perpetual development and an exponential rhythm of scientific publications. This recent paradigm shift toward a minimal approach-related iatrogeny coupled with a maximally efficient surgical target is not so clear cut, as pioneering neurosurgeons such as Cushing, Dandy or Dott among others already adopted this philosophy of work, limited by the technology available at that time that did not permit their minimally invasive expectations. This has been possible only with the progresses made in the fields of imaging, surgical instrumentation, illumination technologies (microscope and endoscope), radiosurgery, and neuroanesthesia.

In 1992 the Editors published the first volume of Minimally Invasive Neurosurgery (MIN I) which described the current state of the art in this rapidly developing field of neurosurgery and reported first clinical experiences with these new technologies. The subject of MIN II is limited to endoscopic anatomy, technical devices and surgical management of disorders suitable for endoscopic procedures. The indications and approaches in different diseases are still highly preliminary and longterm results are not yet available. The clinical value and the benefit to the patients treated with these new techniques must still be proven against the well established standards of microsurgery. This volume presents a critical update of neuroendoscopy.

Get step-by-step, expert guidance on fundamental procedures in neurosurgery. Core Techniques in Operative Neurosurgery, 2nd Edition, provides the tools needed to hone existing surgical skills and learn new techniques, helping you minimize risk and achieve optimal outcomes for every procedure. Led by Dr. Rahul Jandial, this concise reference offers quick access to the expertise and experience of the world’s leading authorities in the field of neurosurgery. Presents consistent, easy-to-follow chapters that cover the indications and contraindications, pitfalls, tips and tricks from the experts, and more for each procedure. Covers minimally invasive spine techniques such as Thoracic Corpectomy and Minimally Invasive Direct Lateral Transpsoas Interbody Fusion. Includes new chapters on Microvascular Decompression and Brachial Plexus Injury Nerve Grafting and Transfers.