ObjectiveTo evaluate the efficacy and safety of extended endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal approach (EEETA) for craniopharyngiomas.MethodsClinical data of 20 patients suffering from craniopharyngioma surgically removed via EEETA were analyzed retrospectively with literature review.ResultsTotal tumor excision was achieved in all the 20 patients without death case. No postoperative complications occurred in 15 cases. Newonset visual complication, transient diabetes insipidus and endocrinopathy occurred in 1, 2, and 2 patients respectively. During the followup period, possible recurrence was observed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in 2 patients at 8 and 18 months postoperatively. No relapses appeared in the other patients with a longest followup period of 12 months. In 2 cases with preserved pituitary stalk, the postoperative pituitary function remained unchanged and no tumor recurred during 7 months’ followup.ConclusionExcision of craniopharyngioma via EEETA demonstrates advantages of good safety and efficacy. Successful skull base reconstruction has provided great support for surgical success by reducing postoperative cerebrospinal fluid leakage and intracranial infection.