A triple-layer, autograft-free reconstruction strategy for skull base repair after standard endoscopic endonasal resection of pituitary adenomas - Report - MDSpire

A triple-layer, autograft-free reconstruction strategy for skull base repair after standard endoscopic endonasal resection of pituitary adenomas

  • By

  • Wenxuan Xin

  • Maosheng Xiang

  • Junjie Liu

  • Zijia Guo

  • Nan Bai

  • Junhao Zhu

  • Yuanming Geng

  • Weiyi Xie

  • Zixiang Cong

  • Chiyuan Ma

  • July 13, 2026

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Clinical Report: Triple-Layer Reconstruction Technique for Skull Base Repair

Overview

This study evaluates a novel triple-layer reconstruction technique for preventing cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage after endoscopic endonasal resection of pituitary adenomas. The technique demonstrated a low postoperative CSF leak rate.

Background

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage is a significant complication following endoscopic endonasal approaches (EEA) for pituitary adenomas, impacting patient outcomes. Traditional reconstruction methods often involve vascularized flaps, which can lead to donor site complications. A simplified approach could reduce these risks while maintaining effective closure of the skull base.

Data Highlights

OutcomeResults
Intraoperative CSF leakage97 patients (45.54%)
Postoperative CSF rhinorrhea3 patients (1.41%; 95% CI: 0.29%–4.25%)
Postoperative leak rate among intraoperative leaks3.1% (3/97; 95% CI: 0.67%–9.08%)
Meningitis4 patients (1.88%)
Postoperative hyposmia2 patients (0.94%)

Key Findings

  • Intraoperative CSF leakage occurred in 45.54% of patients.
  • Postoperative CSF rhinorrhea developed in only 1.41% of patients.
  • No postoperative CSF rhinorrhea was observed among patients with Grade 3 intraoperative leaks.
  • Meningitis occurred in 1.88% of patients, with two cases also having CSF rhinorrhea.
  • Postoperative hyposmia was reported in 0.94% of patients, with recovery noted by 6 months.

Clinical Implications

The triple-layer reconstruction technique offers a low-risk alternative for preventing CSF leaks without the complications associated with autograft harvesting. This approach may be particularly beneficial in settings where minimizing donor site morbidity is a priority.

Conclusion

The findings indicate that the triple-layer reconstruction technique is associated with a low postoperative CSF leak rate following EEA for pituitary adenomas.

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  2. Techniques for Endoscopic Endonasal Resection of Tuberculum Sellae Meningiomas, 2021
  3. The 4 F Technique (Fat, Fascia, Fibrin, and Fat) for Reconstructing the Skull Base in Endoscopic Transorbital Surgery, 2025
  4. American Rhinologic Society expert practice statement part 1: Skull base reconstruction following endoscopic skull base surgery, 2024
  5. Does lumbar drainage reduce postoperative cerebrospinal fluid leak after endoscopic endonasal skull base surgery? A prospective, randomized controlled trial, 2018
  6. Frontiers in Surgery — Innovative technique to cover exposed dura mater after occipital osteomyelitis, using our triple layer using matriderm. A case report
  7. Frontiers | A triple-layer, autograft-free reconstruction strategy for skull base repair after standard endoscopic endonasal resection of pituitary adenomas
  8. American Rhinologic Society expert practice statement part 1: Skull base reconstruction following endoscopic skull base surgery - Douglas - 2024 - International Forum of Allergy & Rhinology - Wiley Online Library
  9. Does lumbar drainage reduce postoperative cerebrospinal fluid leak after endoscopic endonasal skull base surgery? A prospective, randomized controlled trial
  10. Tissue Sealant Impact on Skull Base Reconstruction Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis - Pang - 2024 - The Laryngoscope - Wiley Online Library
  11. Skull base reconstruction using hydroxyapatite and nasoseptal flap versus nasoseptal flap alone: meta-analysis and systematic review | Scientific Reports
  12. Sellar Reconstruction With a Bioabsorbable Plate After Endoscopic Transsphenoidal Pituitary Adenoma Resection: Safe and Efficacious

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