Synchronous ventriculoscopic and microsurgical resection of complex craniopharyngiomas.
BACKGROUND
Surgical resection of craniopharyngiomas may be challenging sometimes because of the size, location and tenacity. Simultaneous endoscopic and microsurgical resection is a novel way to approach such lesions. The aim of this report is to discuss the usefulness of combined endoscopic and microsurgical approaches in treating complex craniopharyngiomas along with a review of the literature.


METHODS
A child with hydrocephalus and a large suprasellar craniopharyngioma underwent synchronous endoscopic and microsurgical resection of the lesion.


RESULTS
Gross total resection of the tumor was achieved. There were no postoperative complications. Hydrocephalus was also treated successfully.


CONCLUSIONS
Neuroendoscopy can complement microsurgery in approaching complex craniopharyngiomas particularly when these tumors are large and accompanied by hydrocephalus.
Filis
Andreas K
AK
Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital, Neurological Institute, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, USA.
Moon
Karam
K
Cohen
Alan R
AR
D002648:Child; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D003287:Contrast Media; D003397:Craniopharyngioma / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000601:surgery*; D003399:Craniotomy / Q000379:methods; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006261:Headache / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000379:methods; D008866:Microsurgery / Q000379:methods*; D044583:Neuroendoscopy / Q000379:methods*; D010911:Pituitary Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000601:surgery*; D018570:Risk Assessment; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014696:Ventriculostomy
D003287:Contrast Media