Experience, Expertise, and Specialized Care for Children
Surgeons at UPMC have pioneered two minimally invasive alternatives to open brain surgery.
Our multidisciplinary team of neurosurgeons, otolaryngologists, and ophthalmic surgeons is among the most
experienced in the world in using these surgical techniques for patients of all ages — including pediatric patients.
In addition, the vibrant new Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC offers a state-of-the-art neurosurgical suite that
was designed especially for these procedures.
Endoscopic Endonasal Approach (EEA)
The Endoscopic Endonasal Approach may
be used to reach tumors and lesions at the base of the skull — such as angiofibromas, pituitary tumors, arteriovenous
malformations (AVMs), and others — by operating through the natural corridor of the nose and nasal sinuses.
UPMC pioneered and refined this technique over the past decade, and is recognized as a world leader. More than 2,000 patients,
including 100 children, have benefited from EEA surgery at UPMC and Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh.
Benefits of EEA Surgery for Children
- No facial incisions or disfigurement
- No disruption of growth plates
- Less trauma to the brain and critical nerves
- Fewer side effects
- Faster recovery time than traditional surgery
A study published by UPMC physicians in the Journal of Neurosurgery found EEA to be a safe and effective
minimally invasive technique for children, with few complications.
Read abstract from Journal of Neurosurgery
Learn more about EEA
Neuroendoport® Surgery
Neuroendoport® Surgery may be used to
reach tumors and lesions deep in the brain, such as gliomas, juvenile pilocytic astrocytomas (JPAs), colloid cysts,
and others. The Neuroendoport, developed at UPMC, allows doctors to operate through a narrow tube — the
circumference of a dime — to reach tumors with minimal trauma to the surrounding brain. This technique may be
used for tumors within the substance of the brain (parenchyma), or within the fluid filled spaces (ventricles).
Benefits of Neuroendoport Surgery for Children
Depending on your child’s condition, Neuroendoport surgery may offer benefits over traditional open surgery. These
benefits may include:
- Tiny incision and minimal scarring
- Less manipulation of brain and critical nerves
- Possibility of fewer side effects and complications
- Possibility of faster recovery time than traditional surgery
Learn more about Neuroendoport
