Effects of the subcranial approach on facial growth and development

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the long-term effects of subcranial surgery for anterior skull base tumors on facial growth. STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING: Retrospective study (1994 to 2004) in a university-affiliated hospital. Of 108 patients who underwent a subcranial surgical approach for anterior skull base tumors, six adolescents and five young adults fulfilled study entry criteria for age and follow-up data availability (mean, 3.2 +/- 2 years). Cephalometric x-ray films monitored postoperative facial growth. Anteriorly and posteriorly measured horizontal and vertical maxillary growth were compared with normal values. RESULTS: All subjects had superiorly positioned maxillae (shorter in patients with long-standing pathologies). The upper incisor teeth were proclined relative to the cranial base reference planes. All cephalometric changes were within a 10 percent deviation of normal values. CONCLUSIONS: Subcranial surgery for these tumors minimally affects vertical facial skeleton growth. Early surgery is essential for unaffected horizontal growth. SIGNIFICANCE: Guidelines for anterior skull base tumor surgery in adolescents and young adults.