Rhinology and Anterior Skull Base Unit

The Rhinology and Anterior Skull Base Unit at the Publio Cordón Memorial Hospital is a highly specialised department dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of complex nasosinusal conditions and disorders of the anterior skull base.

It treats conditions of the nasal cavities and paranasal sinuses which, due to their extent or proximity to orbital and neurological structures, require expert planning and endoscopic surgery of the highest precision. It treats chronic inflammatory conditions, structural abnormalities, tumours and anatomical defects that may affect breathing, the sense of smell or cranial stability.

When to seek advice for rhinosinusitis

The assessment is aimed at patients with refractory chronic sinusitis, nasal polyposis, persistent loss of smell, structural nasal obstruction or suspected nasosinusal tumours.

It also assesses cerebrospinal fluid fistulas, post-traumatic sequelae and conditions affecting the anterior skull base.

The initial aim is to accurately determine the anatomical extent of the condition and to establish the need for surgery when medical treatment proves insufficient.

Endoscopic examination and surgical planning

The assessment includes a detailed nasal endoscopy and imaging tests such as CT and MRI scans, which enable analysis of the sinus anatomy and its relationship with the orbit and the cranial base.

Each procedure is planned on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the specific anatomy, the degree of complexity and the proximity to critical neurovascular structures.

Advanced endoscopic nasosinusal surgery

Procedures are performed using a minimally invasive endoscopic approach, avoiding external incisions. The use of neuronavigation systems provides real-time anatomical guidance and enhances surgical precision in particularly complex areas.

We treat complex chronic sinusitis, nasosinusal polyposis, selected tumours, cerebrospinal fluid fistula repair and other conditions affecting the anterior skull base.

Endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy is also performed in collaboration with the Department of Ophthalmology when indicated.

Scheduled endoscopic follow-up

Following the procedure, regular endoscopic check-ups are scheduled to assess healing, prevent synechiae and detect any possible inflammatory or tumour recurrence.

In cases of chronic or tumour-related conditions, follow-up is coordinated with the relevant specialist departments, ensuring continuity of care and monitoring of the patient’s progress.

Team specialising in rhinology and the anterior skull base

The unit comprises rhinology specialists with a specific focus on advanced endoscopic surgery and disorders of the anterior skull base.

During consultations, the diagnosis, the anatomical extent of the condition and the available treatment options are clearly explained. Risks, alternatives and realistic functional outcomes are detailed before any procedure.

Decision-making is a shared process, particularly in highly complex surgery. Coordination with Neurosurgery, Oncology and other specialities enables us to offer a comprehensive approach at every stage of treatment.

Clinical care begins at the first consultation and continues after surgery or treatment, with scheduled follow-up appointments to check for proper healing, maintain nasal patency and monitor for possible recurrences.

The unit combines precise endoscopic diagnosis, minimally invasive surgery and coordinated planning with other specialities where necessary, ensuring a safe approach to disorders of the rhinosinus and anterior skull base.