Microsurgical treatment for brain stem tumor / 中华显微外科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To investigate the clinical manifestation,pathological characteristics,neurological imaging,indications,operative approach and microsurgieal technique of surgery for brain stem tumor.Methods 17 cases of brain stem tumor treated by applying microsurgical skills were retrospectively analyzed from Jan.2002 to Dec.2007.Ten cases were operated via the suboccipito-retromastoid approach,among which 5 situated in pons,3 in medulla oblongata and 2 invoved both pens and medulla oblongata;4 cases were performed via the posteromedian-suboccipital approach,among which 2 located in pens,1 in medulla oblongata and 1 involved both midbrain and pens;3 lesions situated in varying sites of mesencephalon were operated by the suboceipito-supratentorial,infratemporal approach and pterional approach respectively.Results In the series of the patients,lesion was totally excised in 6 cases,subtotally in one,without surgical mortality.All patients were followed up for years ranging from 5 months to 4 years.During the follow-up period,seven patients resumed work and normal life;4 patients could perform physical labor;3 patients obtained self care capability;2 patients needed to be taken care of,1 patient died from pneumonia after discharge.Conclusion Fine therapeutic efficacy and low disability rate could be obtained while applying microsurgical techniques to resect brain stem tumors with correct indication,appropriate approach and elaborate microneurosurgical skills.