Occipital Interhemispheric Transtentorial Approach for a Pineal Region Meningioma with Pseudobulbar Palsy

Abstract

Meningiomas represent 8%-10% of all pineal region (PR) tumors. When they arise from the falx, tentorium, or tentorial incisura, they are not always considered a true PR tumor, as they do not originate from it but instead only grow toward the region. The true meningioma of PR must be originated from the arachnoid envelope of the pineal gland or from the 2 leaflets of the velum interpositum. In both conditions there are no dural attachments.1,2 Occipital interhemispheric transtentorial and supracerebellar infratentorial are the 2 main approaches for tumors within this region. Aside from the surgeon's preference, the position of the venous system and the direction of the tumor growth guide the approach choice. Endoscope assistance can help reach areas unable to be visualized under the microscope.3-5 We report the case of a 37-year-old female with a large PR meningioma (velum interpositum) presenting with intense dysphagia, dysphonia, and bilateral tongue palsy. Given the affected bilateral upper motor tracts associated with bulbar symptoms, a diagnosis of pseudobulbar palsy was considered.6,7 Preoperative imaging also showed compression of the deep venous system. The patient underwent a total resection of the tumor via an occipital interhemispheric transtentorial approach and exhibited a dramatic recovery of neurologic symptoms after the surgery (Video 1). Postoperative venogram showed restoration of the usual deep venous system pattern, which may be associated with significant neurologic improvement. Careful management of the deep veins is mandatory during the resection of PR meningiomas. The venous system improvement after the surgery may be associated with the dramatic recovery seen in this unique case. The patient consented to publication of her images.