Endoscopic transtuberculum transplanum approach to suprasellar meningiomas

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Extended endoscopic approaches to suprasellarmeningiomas have been proposed recently as a viable option or alternative to traditional microsurgical transcranial approaches. Endoscopic approaches have been presented as a minimally invasive route to such formidable lesions of the skull base, obviating the need of large craniotomies & brain retraction. Endoscopic approaches were shown to provide comparable rates of gross total resection, in selected cases, better visual outcomes than transcranial approaches, on the other hand high CSF leak rate was a major cornerstone for criticism for endoscopic approaches. Objective Assessing the feasibility & safety of extended endoscopic approaches to suprasellarmeningiomas. Methods Interventional prospective study including 23 patients harboring suprasellarmeningiomas assessed for gross total resection, visual outcome, CSF leak rates & other surgical morbidities. Results 23 patients 18 females (78%) & 5 males (22%); mean age was 59 years with range of 37-86 years. Tuberculumsellae meningioma compromised 15 cases (65%), planumsphenoidale 2 cases (9%) &planum/tuberculum 6 patients (26%) of the studied patients. Gross total resection wash achieved in 17 patients (74%).Vision was improved in 80% of patients presenting with visual symptoms & was stable in 20% post-operatively. All patients (100%) without pre-operative visual deficit were able to preserve their pre-operative visual state. CSF leak was the most common compilation occurring in 4 patients (17%). Lumbar drainage was sufficient to control the CSF leak in 2 patients while the other 2 patients required surgical repair of the skull base reconstruct. Transient DI was encountered in 2 patients (9%). Conclusion Extended endoscopic approach to suprasellarmeningiomas is safe & feasible. Comparable outcomes regarding gross total resection with superior visual outcome can be attained in carefully selected patients. CSF leak is major limitation of endoscopic approaches, however the introduction of vascularized naso-septal flaps helped overcome this issue.