Book excerpt: Endoscopy is firmly established as a major technology for investigation and therapy in a wide range of disciplines. The field of otolaryngology or head and neck surgery owes its existence to the very special difficulties of examining the dark recesses of the head and neck. Therefore, this field has been at the forefront of developing endoscopic techniques for use in this anatomic area. While rhinologists have been quick to embrace the endoscope in the management of sinus disorders, otologists and skull base surgeons have been less than enthusiastic despite the vast range of possible applications in this area. In this book the authors consider the new field of application of endoscope technology in neuro-otology and skull base surgery. Dr. Sanna is part of The Grupppo Otologico, a world-renowned specialist center for the diagnosis and medical and surgical treatment of diseases of the ear, skull base, facial nerve, head and neck, and paranasal sinuses.