Pterional approach microsurgical removal of giant tuberculum sellae meningiomas / 中国微创外科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To summarize the experience of pterional craniotomy microsurgical resection of giant tuberculum sellae meningiomas. Methods A total of 18 patients with giant tuberculum sellae meningiomas were treated microsurgically in this hospital from February 2000 to November 2004. The patients were operated on by use of pterional craniotomy on the side of worse vision. The basal part of the tumor was firstly dissected to control the blood supply of the lesion. Through the cerebral cisterns at the sellar region and the interfaces between the tumor and the adjacent structures, the tumor was removed to the greatest possible extent with minimal invasion to the neighbouring structures. Results[WTBZ] A total resection was conducted in 16 patients (88.9%), and a subtotal resection, in 2 patients (11.1%). No surgery related death was observed. Follow-up examinations in 14 patients for 3 months ~ 4 years (mean, 2.5 years) found no recurrence of meningiomas. Conclusions[WTBZ] The pterional approach provides excellent exposure of the middle fossa and the parasellar area. Pterional approach microsurgical technique can improve the rate of total resection of giant tuberculum sellae meningiomas.