Total Resection of Craniopharyngioma and Treatment of Post-operation Complications / 中国医师杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To investigate the method of total resection of craniopharyngioma and prevention and treatment of post-operative complications. Methods Pterion craniotomy was performed in 24 patients with craniopharyngioma which was situated in sellar region after giving glucocorticoid and anti-epilepsy drug. The tumors were removed via the 4 anatomy spaces in sellar region by employing microsurgical technique. Consciousness, urine volume, and serum electrolyte of patients were observed strictly after surgery, and complications such as diabetes insipidus, serum electrolyte disorders and epilepsy were treated in time. Results Total removal of tumors were achieved in 22 cases, and minor portion of tumors was left in 2 cases. There was not obvious deficit of nervous system function in all of the patients after surgery. Diabetes insipidus, serum electrolyte disorder and body temperature disorder occurred in 16 cases, 12 case, and 6 cases respectively. After treatment, serum electrolyte disorder and body temperature disorder were rectified in all cases, and diabetes insipidus was rectified in 13 of 16 cases. Conclusion Choosing the best operation approach according to the scope of tumor invasion and being familiar with the 4 sellar anatomy spaces were the keys to remove craniopharyngioma completely. Giving glucocorticoid before operation and active treatment of complications such as diabetes insipidus and serum electrolyte disorder could effectively decrease mortality.