The Evolving Impact of Endoscopy in Ear and Lateral Skull Base Surgery

The field of otology and lateral skull base (LSB) surgery is witnessing a significant transformation with the advent and integration of endoscopic technology. Traditionally used supplementary to the operating microscope, the endoscope now occupies a prominent role in this surgical field, by providing wide-angle and magnified views of complex anatomical regions, through minimally invasive surgical corridors.Recent research highlights the benefits of the endoscopic approach (such as detailed anatomical assessment and less surgical trauma); however, the literature lacks robust long-term surgical and functional outcomes, as well as patients’ quality of life assessments after endoscopic or endoscopic-assisted surgery in this field. Ongoing debates also pertains to the surgical indications, ergonomics, and training platforms to master the endoscopic technique.This Research Topic aims to explore the contemporary and evolving role of the endoscope in ear and LSB surgery, both as an exclusive technique, and as combined with microscopic/exoscopic approaches. By gathering multidisciplinary perspectives, it seeks to answer critical questions regarding indications, operative efficacy, patient outcomes, and emerging trends in surgical practice. This research will define the current landscape of endoscopic ear and LSB surgery, offering a forward-looking perspective on the expanding role of the endoscope in this field.We welcome articles addressing the following themes:• Endoscopic management of middle ear disease (chronic otitis media, cholesteatoma, otosclerosis, middle ear tumors);• Endoscopic and endoscopic-assisted management of inner ear disease and cerebello- pontine angle diseases (cochlear schwannoma, vestibular schwannoma, meningiomas, epidermoid tumors, endolymphatic sac tumors, vascular conflicts);• Surgical outcomes in endoscopic and endoscopic-assisted ear and LSB surgery, including quality of life and long-term functional assessment;• Combined endoscopic-microscopic and endoscopic-exoscopic techniques for ear and LSB surgery;• Ergonomic considerations in modern endoscopic ear and LSB surgery;• Advances in instrumentation (including 3D endoscopy, augmented reality, digital navigation, and robotic assistance);• Educational models and training platforms for endoscopic ear and LSB surgery.We accept, but are not limited, to these types of contribution: Clinical Trial, General Commentary, Hypothesis and Theory, Methods, Mini Review, Original Research, Policy and Practice Reviews, Review, Systematic Review, Technology and Code. Topic editors: Giulia Molinari, Lukas Anschuetz Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/77871/the-evolving-impact-of-endoscopy-in-ear-and-lateral-skull-base-surgery