Feasibility of exoscopic keyhole surgery: case series

Abstract

Keyhole approaches, performed with the endoscope, microscope, or exoscope, aim to minimize tissue traumatization while maximizing surgical view. The exoscope can provide better ergonomics than the microscope without restricting the space inside of the keyhole, as when using the endoscope. However, a frequently quoted reason for intraoperative exoscope-to-microscope conversion is the absence of sufficient light. In this video, the authors present 4 patients who underwent posterior fossa keyhole surgery without intraoperative conversion. The surgical objective was achieved in all patients without associated morbidity. After adequate adaptation, the exoscope allows sufficient light in the surgical field to perform safe keyhole surgery. The video can be found here: https://stream.cadmore.media/r10.3171/2023.10.FOCVID23116