Endoscopy in Craniomaxillofacial Surgery

The use of the endoscope in craniomaxillofacial surgery is coming of age. It did not take long for surgeons to recognize the advantages of endoscopic techniques in laparoscopic procedures and sinus surgeries, and it is not at all surprising that surgeons would therefore seek to extend the opportunities to use minimally invasive techniques. However, the anatomy of the craniomaxillofacial region is a bit less welcoming, and endoscopic techniques in this region, particularly for skeletal work, are catching on less quickly. Nonetheless, although the selection of an endoscopic approach is certainly still controversial, the variety of pathologies and injuries in the craniomaxillofacial region that are being approached and managed with the aid of the endoscope is growing. In this issue, several craniomaxillofacial surgeons from around the world share their experience and techniques using endoscopes in this area. Though not all possible uses of the endoscope are addressed, familiarity with the procedures depicted here will allow the surgeon to become more comfortable applying endoscopic techniques for these and other procedures. The authors are to be congratulated for their clear and erudite presentations.