Neuroendoscopic treatment for epidermoid cyst at the cerebellopontine angle

Abstract

Objective To study techniques and complications of pure neuronendoscopic treatment of epidermoid cyst at the cerebellopontine angle.Methods 11 cases of epidermoid cyst at the cerebellopontine angle were resected with pure neuroendoscopy by retrosigmoid approach.Results All cases of epidermoid cyst were completely resected.There was no remanent tumor which was found through the intraoperative observation and MRI scan.One patient had a fever after the operation,the body temperature returned to the normal level with lumber puncture and symptomatic treatment after one week.There were no death and intracranial hemorrhage in all cases.In the period of follow-up there was no recurred tumor.One case of communicating hydrocephalus was performed with V-P shunt after the operation.Conclusions The biological character of epidermoid cyst is lacking blood vessels,soft texture and intact envelope.The tumor suits for neuroendoscopic treatment.Operaters should sufficiently utilize physical and pathological interspace,and use different angle neuroendoscopy and suction,and decrease the traction for the brain in order to increase the total-resection rate of tumors and decrease the post-operative complications.Operative curative effect related to the proficient level of the surgeon mastering endoscopic techniques. Key words: Cerebellopontine angle ; Epidermoid cyst ; Neuroendoscopy ; Complication