Comparison of clinical application of surgical approaches to the third ventricle

Abstract

Objective To compare the application effect of several approaches to the third ventricle,and explore the optimal approach to resect the tumors located at the third ventricle. Methods Under the operative microscope thirty- five patients (prophase group) with the third ventricle tumors were operated via transcortical approach, trans - lamina terminalis approach or infratentorial supracerebellar approach, and twenty- one patients (anaphase group ) via transcallosal - interforniceal approach. Operative effect was observed and compared. Results Among the prophase group, the tumors were totally removed in 16 cases,subtotally in 6 cases and partially in 13 cases. Among the anaphase group, the total removal of tumor were obtained in 11 cases, subtotal in 8 cases and partial in 2 cases. Rate of total and subtotal tumor removal had significant difference between two groups. Rate of postoperative complications in anaphase group was lower than that in prophase group. Conclusion Transcallosal - interforniceal approach should be considered for treatment of tumors involving the middle and posterior portion of the third ventricle by providing a quite large operative field ,direct corridor, easier tumor resection and rare postoperative complication. Key words: Third ventricle; Transcallosal -interforniceal approach; Trans -lamina terminalis approach; Infratentorial supracerebellar approach