Brain & Mind Center

Skull Base Microsurgery and Endoscopy Unit

The unit

Technology for secure access. Expertise for precise intervention.

The Skull Base Microsurgery and Endoscopy Unit at the Publio Cordón Memorial Hospital treats tumours and deep lesions of the skull base and pituitary region using high-precision microsurgical and endoscopic techniques.

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Dr Roberto García Leal
Head of the unit

Dr Roberto García Leal

Specialist in
  • Microsurgery for cerebral aneurysms and vascular malformations.

  • Functional brain cancer surgery and awake brain surgery.

  • Endoscopic brain surgery and microsurgery for skull base tumours.

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Medical team

Our specialists

Dr Fernando Ruiz Juretschke

Dr Fernando Ruiz Juretschke

Specialist in
  • Minimally invasive surgery for brain tumours.

  • Endoscopic surgery for pituitary adenoma.

  • Cervical microdiscectomy and minimally invasive surgery on the lumbar spine.

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Patient information

Skull Base Microsurgery and Endoscopy Unit

The Skull Base Microsurgery and Endoscopy Unit treats patients with deep-seated tumours and lesions located in the skull base and pituitary region that require a highly specialised surgical approach. It intervenes in situations where anatomical complexity and proximity to critical neurological structures demand the utmost technical precision and individualised planning.

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Surgical assessment of pituitary tumours and deep skull base lesions

The unit is aimed at patients diagnosed with tumours or lesions located in deep, hard-to-reach areas, where a conventional approach may entail a greater functional risk. Specialist assessment is essential in cases of pituitary adenomas, craniopharyngiomas, skull base meningiomas, neurinomas, chordomas, chondrosarcomas or squamous cell carcinomas.

The treatment decision is based on a detailed analysis of the location, extent and behaviour of the lesion, as well as the neurological and endocrine impact of the condition.

When is surgery recommended? Treatment is considered following an assessment of the progression of the lesion, neurological symptoms and associated hormonal abnormalities. The strategy aims to strike a balance between tumour control and functional preservation.

Surgical treatment of lesions in the sellar, parasellar and foramen magnum regions

Each case is assessed on an individual basis, taking into account not only the tumour’s anatomy but also the associated neurological and hormonal function.

The unit deals with lesions located in:

  • Anterior, middle and posterior cranial fossae

  • The sellar and parasellar regions

  • Cavernous sinus

  • Pineal region

  • Foramen magnum

The indication for surgery is determined following a careful assessment of the balance between the risk of the lesion progressing and the safety of the treatment, with priority given to preserving function.

Technology guides; experience drives.
Technology guides; experience drives.

Advanced surgical planning

The process begins with a specialist consultation and a thorough review of high-resolution MRI scans, endocrinological investigations where appropriate, and specific supplementary tests.

Planning incorporates navigation systems, three-dimensional reconstruction and intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring. Cases are assessed in joint sessions with neuroradiologists, endocrinologists, oncologists and intensive care specialists to determine the safest and most effective strategy.

This methodology enables us to anticipate risks and tailor the approach to the specific anatomical characteristics of each patient.

Surgery in the vicinity of cranial nerves and major intracranial vessels Injuries to the skull base are located close to critical neurovascular structures, which influence the surgical risk. Their treatment requires three-dimensional planning and specific microsurgical expertise.

Choice of microsurgical or endoscopic approach

The unit combines traditional microsurgical approaches with advanced endonasal endoscopic techniques, selecting the most appropriate access route in each case depending on the location of the lesion and its relationship to critical structures.

The use of high-precision microscopes and visualisation systems, together with navigation and intraoperative monitoring technologies, enhances safety during the procedure and optimises control of essential neurovascular structures.

In selected cases, endoscopic approaches allow access to deep areas via the nasal passages, avoiding more invasive procedures and facilitating a more controlled recovery.

The choice of approach is determined on a case-by-case basis, taking into account anatomical, oncological and functional criteria.

A specialist team and ongoing support.

The care model combines a high level of technical complexity with organised and personalised clinical care. From the very first consultation, the team takes the time needed to clearly explain the diagnosis, the neurological and endocrine implications, and the various treatment options, enabling the patient to make an informed decision.

Patients receive detailed guidance on the procedure, the expected recovery and subsequent follow-up. During hospitalisation and in the post-operative period, coordinated supervision is maintained between neurosurgery, endocrinology and other specialists involved, ensuring continuity of care.

The unit combines surgical precision, rigorous planning and constant support, prioritising safety, functional preservation and clear communication at every stage of the process.

Specialist assessment in microsurgery and endoscopy of the skull base

In the event of a confirmed diagnosis of a pituitary tumour or a complex skull base lesion, the Unit carries out a comprehensive assessment to determine the safest and most appropriate surgical strategy for each individual case.

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