Current Applications and Cutting-Edge Innovations in Neuroendoscopy for Oncological Neurosurgery: Where Are We and Where Are We Going?

Dear Colleagues,

Oncological neurosurgery has been rapidly improved by the introduction of endoscopic techniques. In fact, a broad spectrum of neurosurgical procedures have been enhanced and taken advantage of in neuroendoscopy, from skull base to endoventricular surgery and beyond for the treatment of pituitary adenomas, skull base, and even brain tumors. In particular, different endoscopic corridors modified the approach to brain ventricles, arachnoid spaces, and skull base, fostering the minimally invasive management of several brain lesions by improved tumor visualization and maximal safe resection, thus aiming to achieve better oncological outcomes. Endoventricular endoscopy has emerged as a valuable and effective alternative to open craniotomy for several endoventricular lesions and CSF pathologies. Moreover, different endoscopic techniques have been developed for the treatment of different pathologies, from brain trauma to functional or pediatric and malformative neurosurgery.

Today, improvements in intraoperative and optic technology, the integration of advanced neuroimaging, the development of robotic-assisted devices, and the wide availability of biocomputational tools and realistic simulators for preoperative planning pave the way for cutting-edge technical advancement in neuroendoscopy and further indications in cranial neurosurgery.

However, neuroendoscopy currently faces several hurdles, such as technical limits of neuroendoscopes and surgical instruments, access to dedicated intraoperative devices, a steep technical learning curve, the need for proper training and mentorship to promote specific skill acquisition, and the popularization of neuroendoscopic techniques.

This Special Issue of Cancers calls for original studies focusing on clinical outcomes, technological advancements, and surgical training in neuroendoscopy, from skull base to endoventricular and endoscope-assisted neurosurgery. We welcome contributions focusing on novel techniques and emerging technology (e.g., robotic assistance, advanced preoperative and intraoperative imaging, augmented reality) in neuroendoscopy, fostering precise resection and intraoperative cancer diagnostics,  along with novel approaches and training for endoscopic procedures, assessing the limits and potentialities of endoscopic applications in neurosurgery.

Dr. Giuseppe Roberto Giammalva
Dr. Giovanni Tringali
Dr. Giuseppe Cinalli
Guest Editors

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