Abstract: Objective　To explore the anatomical feasibility of resecting ventral brainstem tumors using endoscopic endonasal approach.　Methods　Five formalin-fixed adult human cadaveric heads were dissected by endoscopic endonasal transclival approach to assess the exposed bone window, and observe the adjacent neurovascular structures.  Results  The mesencephalon, pons and medulla oblongata could be exposed in all specimens, but it was necessary to displace the pituitary gland to expose the mesencephalon completely. The lateral exposed margins were the cavernous carotid arteries and the inferior petrosal sinuses. The medulla oblongata and the superior cervical spinal could be exposed by resection of part of the anterior C-1 arch and the odontoid process. The exposed major neurovascular structures included the basilar artery and its branches, the vertebral artery and its branches, cranial nerves III - XII, and the first and second cervical nerves.　Conclusions　The whole ventral brainstem and the corresponding neurovascular structures can be exposed by endoscopic endonasal transclival approach. It is feasible to resect ventral brainstem tumors using such approach.

Key words:  , Endoscopy； 　Anatomy；　Brainstem；　 Tumor；　Operation