Skull base surgery

Surgery of the lateral skull base" refers to operations that treat diseases that occur between the ear and the brain. These can be tumors of the cranial nerves or blood vessels located near the brain. These include vestibular schwannomas and glomus tumors. Surgery on the vestibular organ also falls under surgery of the lateral skull base.

Certain diseases close to the brain are best treated by surgical removal. The anatomical conditions at the base of the skull are very complex due to the many vessels and nerves and the proximity to the brain. The operations are therefore performed with very fine instruments and under microscopic control. The incision is usually made behind the ear at the hairline.

Treatment

Tumors and other diseases of the lateral skull base are treated if they cause symptoms or if the surrounding structures are at risk, such as the auditory system, the vestibular system, nerves (especially the facial nerve) or the brain. The clinical pictures include:

  • Vestibular schwannoma
  • Neurinoma
  • Meningioma
  • Paraganglioma
  • Neurofibromatosis type II.

Why to USZ

Surgery of the lateral skull base requires specialized knowledge and skills. Many different specialist disciplines are required for correct treatment and aftercare. That is why we work closely with other specialists at the USZ. These include people from neurosurgery, neuroradiology (interventional and diagnostic), intensive care medicine, neurology and specialized physiotherapists and speech therapists. The USZ has a long tradition and high reputation in lateral skull base surgery. Our team at the USZ offers the entire spectrum and the best possible therapy based on the latest research and technology.

Responsible senior physicians

Alexander Huber, Prof. Dr. med.

Director of Department, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery

Tel. +41 44 255 59 00
Specialties: Ear surgery, Skull base surgery, Cochlear implants

Christof Röösli, Prof. Dr. med.

Senior Physician, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery

Tel. +41 44 255 58 60
Specialties: Ear surgery, Cochlear implantation, Bone conduction hearing

Adrian Dalbert, PD Dr. med.

Attending Physician, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery

Tel. +41 44 255 58 15
Specialties: Cochlear implants, Ear surgery, Audiology

For patients

As a patient, you cannot register directly for a consultation. Please get a referral from your primary care physician, specialist, or outpatient clinic.

For referrering physicians

University Hospital Zurich
ORL clinic
Frauenklinikstrasse 24
8091 Zurich

Tel. +41 44 255 58 60
Patient registration form

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