Advances.- Brain plasticity and tumors.- Tumor-biology and current treatment of skull-base chordomas.- The influence of genetics on intracranial aneurysm formation and rupture: current knowledge and its possible impact on future treatment.- Technical standards.- Extended endoscopic endonasal approach to the midline skull base: the evolving role of transsphenoidal surgery.- Management of brachial plexus injuries.- Surgical anatomy of the jugular foramen.