Application and assessment of combined pterional and subfrontal approach for removal of meningioma in anterior cranial fossa

Abstract

Objective To explore the rational approach for removing the meningomas located in the anterior cranial fossa. Methods Thirty-one cases with meningomas located in the anterior cranial fossa underwent the surgeries through combined pterional and subfrontal approach or unilateral or bilateral frontal approach from 2000 to 2005. Their total resection rates and complication incidences were compared retrospectively. Results Total resection was achieved in 15 of 16 cases using the combined pterional and subfrontal approach, and in 9 of 15 cases using the unilateral or bilateral frontal approach.Compared with the combined pterional and subfrontal approach, the incidence of complications was higher in the ones using the unilateral or bilateral frontal approach. Conclusion Combined pterional and subfrontal approach is a feasible and favorable approach for removing the meningioma located in the anterior cranial fossa. Key words: Anterior cranial fossa; Meningioma; Combined pterional and subfrontal approach