Craniopharyngiomas: experience and results

Abstract

IntroductionCraniopharyngiomas are a big challenge in the neurosurgical field. Because these lesions involve important systems, surgeons must weigh the risks of aggressive resection against the long-term challenges of recurrence. We present the outcomes of our patients based on clinical results, degree of resection, recurrence and disease-free survival. Materials and methodsWe reviewed medical records in all patients who had undergone surgical resection for craniopharyngioma at (Institution’s name) between 2007 and 2019. We considered ophthalmological examinations, imaging studies, endocrinological studies and surgical complications. Radical resections were planned in all of the patients. To help choose the correct surgical approach, craniopharyngiomas were classified based on tumour location. ResultsThirty cases of craniopharyngioma were analysed. 12.5% were classified as intrasellar, 12.5% as prechiasmatic, 43.75% as retrochiasmatic, and 31.25% as intraventricular. Overall, 38 cases involved a transcranial surgery (15 orbitozygomatic approach; 19 pterional approach and 4 transcallosal approach), 7 involved a transsphenoidal approach, 2 microscopic transnasal approach and one ventricular endoscopy for emptying the craniopharyngioma cyst. Gross-total resection was achieved in 43.7% and near-total resection (more than 90%) in 25%. The mean follow-up period after resection was 4.7 years. Tumour recurrence occurred in 48%, with an average of 42.7 disease-free months. ConclusionTotal tumour resection is the best treatment for craniopharyngioma. Due to its high morbidity and mortality, a multidisciplinary team is necessary for the management of these tumours.