Neurotology and skull base surgery is a wonderful career path. We highly recommend it! Patients range in age from the very young to the elderly and range in health from being completely normal to having multiple severe comorbidities. The pathologies are variable, spanning the spectrum from uncomplicated benign lesions to highly complex life-threatening lesions. Operating in and around the skull base is complex because of the detailed anatomy, large vascular structures, and the presence of cranial nerves. As you become an expert in this anatomy, you will be able to resect formidable-appearing tumors with superb survival rates and limited morbidity. Most patients will return to active and productive lives.

The importance of having a dedicated skull base surgical team cannot be overstated. There is a synergistic effect when the group works as a coordinated team in the management of these complex tumors and pathologies. A dedicated neurotologist, neurosurgeon, neuroradiologist, radiation oncologist, intraoperative monitoring technician, proficient surgical scrub, and experienced ICU staff are all critical to success. A high case volume is required to generate the necessary expertise.