[Microsurgical management of tuberculum sellae meningiomas].

OBJECTIVE

To explore the approach and efficacy of microsurgery for tuberculum sellae meningiomas.

METHODS

The clinical data of 56 patients with tuberculum sellae meningiomas treated at our department from 1991 - 2009 were analyzed retrospectively. There were 20 males and 36 females with an age range of 32 - 65 years old (mean: 46). All patients underwent microsurgery through pterional, unilateral subfrontal, orbitozygomatic or supraorbital keyhole approach.

RESULTS

Among these patients, there were total resection (n = 51) and subtotal resection (n = 5). Postoperatively, 53 patients recovered well, 2 had a mild disability, 1 suffered a severe disability and there was no mortality.

CONCLUSION

Most cases of tuberculum sellae meningiomas can be removed safely and totally. Several approaches may be employed to achieve the best outcomes. Microsurgery can markedly boost the total resection rate of tuberculum salle meningiomas and lower the postoperative complications and mortality.