Lateral cervical approach for ventrally located upper cervical meningioma: experience of 14 cases with a narrative comparison with other surgical techniques

BACKGROUND

Upper cervical meningioma represents a large portion of intradural extramedullary tumors that occur in the cervical spinal canal. Most of them are located ventrally or ventrolateral to the spinal cord. Reaching lesions at this location surgically is technically challenging.

OBJECTIVES

The ideal approach to ventrally located upper cervical lesions continues to be controversial. The aim of this study was to discuss the advantage of the lateral cervical approach and compare it with other surgical routes.

METHODS

This retrospective study was conducted on all cases of ventrally located upper cervical meningiomas (C1-C3) who have been operated on using the lateral cervical approach in a tertiary neurosurgery unit between 2006 and 2020. Demographic, clinical, surgical, and follow-up data were collected from hospital records.

RESULTS

During the study period, fourteen patients (Nine females and five males, aged 42-73 years) were recruited. The follow-up period was 2-16 years. The most frequent presenting symptoms were neck pain, occipital headache, motor deficits, and sensory disturbances. Total excision was achieved in all patients. All patients who had preoperative motor deficits improved significantly postoperatively, and those who presented with sensory disturbance had partial recovery. There was neither mortality nor permanent neurological morbidity.

CONCLUSION

A lateral cervical approach is a safe approach for ventrally located upper cervical lesions. In our series, it offered enough exposure for a safe dissection and total or extensive subtotal removal of the tumors. Retraction or rotation of the neuroaxis was avoided, and the incidence of complications (injury of neural or vascular structures, instability, infection) was very low.

Neurosurgical treatment and outcome patterns in patients with meningioma in South Moravian region-a population-based study

INTRODUCTION

Meningiomas are usually slow-growing tumours, constituting about one third of all primary intracranial tumours. They occur more frequently in women. Clinical manifestation of meningiomas depends on their location, tumour size and growth rate. In most cases, surgical treatment is the procedure of choice. The success of this treatment is, however, associated with the radicality of the resection. Radiotherapy represents an additional or alternative treatment modality. Gamma knife surgery is another notable treatment method, especially in small and/or slow-growing tumours in eloquent areas or in elderly patients.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Authors describe their experience with the diagnosis, treatment and outcome of the patients with meningioma (n = 857). Furthermore, they also assess the postoperative morbidity/mortality and recurrence rate.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

In view of the benign histology of meningiomas, the success of the treatment largely depends (besides the tumour grading) on the radicality of the resection. The emphasis is also put on appropriate follow-up of the patients. In certain patients, the watch and wait strategy should be also considered as a suitable treatment method.

Endovascular stenting for cerebral venous sinus stenosis secondary to meningioma invasion

INTRODUCTION

Symptomatic intracranial hypertension (IH) due to venous outflow obstruction secondary to dural venous sinus (DVS) tumoral invasion affects up to 3% of intracranial meningioma patients. The literature regarding endovascular therapies of such patients is limited to a few case reports and a recent single-centre case series.

PURPOSE

We describe our single-centre experience of endovascular therapy in patients with clinically symptomatic IH secondary to DVS meningioma invasion.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of clinical and radiological data of all patients with refractory IH and meningiomas invading the DVS who were referred for possible DVS venoplasty and stenting. Seven endovascular procedures in six female patients were done. Presumed secondarily induced lateral transverse sinus stenosis was also stented in four patients as part of the primary intervention.

RESULTS

All patients experienced complete symptomatic resolution at 6-month follow-up. Five patients had no symptom recurrence over a mean follow-up period of 3.5 years. One patient with multiple meningiomas developed recurrent IH 2 years following stenting secondary to in-stent tumour re-invasion. This was re-stented with consequent 6 months post-retreatment symptomatic relief at the time of writing. No procedure-related complications occurred.

CONCLUSION

In the setting of DVS stenosis secondary to meningioma invasion, endovascular therapy is a safe and successful therapeutic option with promising mid-term results. The procedure should be considered in cases where complete surgical tumour resection is unlikely or carries a significant risk. If present, secondarily induced stenoses at the lateral ends of the transverse sinuses should also be considered for treatment.

Chronic hyperglycemia and intracranial meningiomas

Meningiomas are among the most common primary tumors of the central nervous system. Previous research into the meningioma histological appearance, genetic markers, transcriptome and epigenetic landscape has revealed that benign meningiomas significantly differ in their glucose metabolism compared to aggressive lesions. However, a correlation between the systemic glucose metabolism and the metabolism of the tumor hasn't yet been found. We hypothesized that chronic levels of glycaemia (approximated with glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c)) are different in patients with aggressive and benign meningiomas. The study encompassed 71 patients with de novo intracranial meningiomas, operated on in three European hospitals, two in Croatia and one in Spain. Our results show that patients with WHO grade 2 meningiomas had significantly higher HbA1c values compared to patients with grade 1 lesions (P = 0.0290). We also found a significant number of patients (19/71; 26.7%) being hyperglycemic, harboring all the risks that such a condition entails. Finally, we found a significant correlation between our patients' age and their preoperative HbA1c levels (P = 0.0008, ρ(rho) = 0.388), suggesting that older meningioma patients are at a higher risk of having their glycaemia severely dysregulated. These findings are especially important considering the current routine and wide-spread use of corticosteroids as anti-edematous treatment. Further research in this area could lead to better understanding of meningiomas and have immediate clinical impact.

Microsurgical resection of a large petroclival meningioma through an extended retrosigmoid approach: how I do it

BACKGROUND

Petroclival meningiomas are challenging tumors. Several skull base approaches have been proposed in the last decades, with variable rates of postoperative morbidity and extent of resection.

METHODS

We herein reported the step-by-step microsurgical resection of a large petroclival meningioma through an extended retrosigmoid approach. Detailed surgical technique has been accompanied by a 2D operative video.

CONCLUSION

The extended retrosigmoid approach allowed for a safe gross total resection of the tumor, as confirmed by the postoperative MRI. The patient did not experience any new postoperative deficit, despite a transient diplopia, and was discharged on postoperative day 7.

Plasma extracellular vesicles in meningioma patients following radiotherapy as liquid biopsy- a prospective explorative biomarker study (ARO 2023-05/AG-NRO-07)

BACKGROUND

While surgical resection remains the primary treatment approach for symptomatic or growing meningiomas, radiotherapy represents an auspicious alternative in patients with meningiomas not safely amenable to surgery. Biopsies are often omitted in light of potential postoperative neurological deficits, resulting in a lack of histological grading and (molecular) risk stratification. In this prospective explorative biomarker study, extracellular vesicles in the bloodstream will be investigated in patients with macroscopic meningiomas to identify a biomarker for molecular risk stratification and disease monitoring.

METHODS

In total, 60 patients with meningiomas and an indication of radiotherapy (RT) and macroscopic tumor on the planning MRI will be enrolled. Blood samples will be obtained before the start, during, and after radiotherapy, as well as during clinical follow-up every 6 months. Extracellular vesicles will be isolated from the blood samples, quantified and correlated with the clinical treatment response or progression. Further, nanopore sequencing-based DNA methylation profiles of plasma EV-DNA will be generated for methylation-based meningioma classification.

DISCUSSION

This study will explore the dynamic of plasma EVs in meningioma patients under/after radiotherapy, with the objective of identifying potential biomarkers of (early) tumor progression. DNA methylation profiling of plasma EVs in meningioma patients may enable molecular risk stratification, facilitating a molecularly-guided target volume delineation and adjusted dose prescription during RT treatment planning.

Scalp necrosis following preoperative endovascular embolisation of the superficial temporal artery for meningioma

A woman in her late 50s with a left frontal lobe convexity meningioma underwent an elective endovascular embolisation of the left middle meningeal artery and distal branches of the left superficial temporal artery prior to surgical resection of the tumour. On postoperative day 46, she developed scalp necrosis, leading to poor wound healing requiring wound debridement and a complex plastic surgery reconstruction with a rotational flap. Endovascular embolisation of vascular tumours prior to surgical resection does not come without risks. The lack of consistency in the literature regarding indication, technique and outcomes makes it difficult to define the exact role of preoperative meningioma embolisation.

Perifocal edema is a risk factor for preoperative seizures in patients with meningioma WHO grade 2 and 3

BACKGROUND

Patients with intracranial meningiomas frequently suffer from tumor-related seizures prior to resection, impacting patients' quality of life. We aimed to elaborate on incidence and predictors for seizures in a patient cohort with meningiomas WHO grade 2 and 3.

METHODS

We retrospectively searched for patients with meningioma WHO grade 2 and 3 according to the 2021 WHO classification undergoing tumor resection. Clinical, histopathological and imaging findings were collected and correlated with preoperative seizure development. Tumor and edema volumes were quantified.

RESULTS

Ninety-five patients with a mean age of 59.5 ± 16.0 years were included. Most tumors (86/95, 90.5%) were classified as atypical meningioma WHO grade 2. Nine of 95 tumors (9.5%) corresponded to anaplastic meningiomas WHO grade 3, including six patients harboring TERT promoter mutations. Meningiomas were most frequently located at the convexity in 38/95 patients (40.0%). Twenty-eight of 95 patients (29.5%) experienced preoperative seizures. Peritumoral edema was detected in 62/95 patients (65.3%) with a median volume of 9 cm3 (IR: 0-54 cm3). Presence of peritumoral edema but not age, tumor localization, TERT promoter mutation, brain invasion or WHO grading was associated with incidence of preoperative seizures, as confirmed in multivariate analysis (OR: 6.61, 95% CI: 1.18, 58.12, p = *0.049). Postoperative freedom of seizures was achieved in 91/95 patients (95.8%).

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative seizures were frequently encountered in about every third patient with meningioma WHO grade 2 or 3. Patients presenting with peritumoral edema on preoperative imaging are at particular risk for developing tumor-related seizures. Tumor resection was highly effective in achieving seizure freedom.

Efficacy and toxicity of bimodal radiotherapy in WHO grade 2 meningiomas following subtotal resection with carbon ion boost: Prospective phase 2 MARCIE trial

BACKGROUND

Novel radiotherapeutic modalities using carbon ions provide an increased relative biological effectiveness (RBE) compared to photons, delivering a higher biological dose while reducing radiation exposure for adjacent organs. This prospective phase 2 trial investigated bimodal radiotherapy using photons with carbon-ion (C12)-boost in patients with WHO grade 2 meningiomas following subtotal resection (Simpson grade 4 or 5).

METHODS

A total of 33 patients were enrolled from July 2012 until July 2020. The study treatment comprised a C12-boost (18 Gy [RBE] in 6 fractions) applied to the macroscopic tumor in combination with photon radiotherapy (50 Gy in 25 fractions). The primary endpoint was the 3-year progression-free survival (PFS), and the secondary endpoints included overall survival, safety and treatment toxicities.

RESULTS

With a median follow-up of 42 months, the 3-year estimates of PFS, local PFS and overall survival were 80.3%, 86.7%, and 89.8%, respectively. Radiation-induced contrast enhancement (RICE) was encountered in 45%, particularly in patients with periventricularly located meningiomas. Patients exhibiting RICE were mostly either asymptomatic (40%) or presented immediate neurological and radiological improvement (47%) after the administration of corticosteroids or bevacizumab in case of radiation necrosis (3/33). Treatment-associated complications occurred in 1 patient with radiation necrosis who died due to postoperative complications after resection of radiation necrosis. The study was prematurely terminated after recruiting 33 of the planned 40 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrates a bimodal approach utilizing photons with C12-boost may achieve a superior local PFS to conventional photon RT, but must be balanced against the potential risks of toxicities.

Predictive factors of the postoperative proptosis recovery in surgery of spheno-orbital meningiomas

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to identify factors affecting proptosis recovery in spheno-orbital meningioma (SOM) surgery and assess functional and oncological outcomes.

METHODS

Data from 32 consecutive SOM surgery cases (2002-2021) were analyzed. Clinical, radiological, operative, and oncological parameters were examined. Proptosis was assessed using the exophthalmos index (EI) on MRI or CT scans. Statistical analyses were performed to identify predictive factors for proptosis recovery.

RESULTS

Proptosis improved in 75% of patients post-surgery (EI decreased from 1.28 ± 0.16 to 1.20 ± 0.13, p = 0.048). Patients with stable or worsened EI had higher body mass index (28.5 ± 7.9 vs. 24.1 ± 4.7, p = 0.18), Simpson grade (IV 75% vs. 65%, p = 0.24), and middle sphenoid wing epicenter involvement (63% vs. 38%, p = 0.12), but no significant factors were associated with unfavorable exophthalmos outcomes. The improvement group had higher en plaque morphology, infratemporal fossa invasion, and radiation treatment for cavernous sinus residual tumor (88% vs. 75%, p = 0.25; 51% vs. 25%, p = 0.42; 41% vs. 25%, p = 0.42, respectively), but without statistical significance. Visual acuity remained stable in 78%, improved in 13%, and worsened in 9% during follow-up. Surgery had a positive impact on preoperative oculomotor nerve dysfunction in 3 of 4 patients (75%). Postoperative oculomotor nerve dysfunction was observed in 25%, of which 75% fully recovered. This occurrence was significantly associated with irradiation of an orbital tumor residue (p = 0.04). New postoperative trigeminal hypoesthesia was observed in 47%, of which 73% recovered. All SOMs were classified as WHO grade 1, and complementary treatments achieved oncological control, requiring gamma-knife radiosurgery in 53% and standard radiotherapy in 6%.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgery effectively improves proptosis in SOM, though complete resolution is rare. The absence of predictive factors suggests multifactorial causes, including body mass index and tumor resection grade. Postoperative oculomotor nerve dysfunction and trigeminal hypoesthesia are common but often recover. Gamma-knife radiosurgery maintains long-term oncological control for evolving tumor residue.

Sinus reconstruction therapy for superior sagittal sinus dural arteriovenous fistula caused by parasagittal meningioma invasion: a case report

A dural arteriovenous fistula (dAVF) involving the superior sagittal sinus (SSS) is relatively rare, and its clinical course is usually aggressive. Its concomitance with a tumor has rarely been reported. Here, we present a case of SSS dAVF due to meningioma invasion, which was treated with sinus reconstruction and endovascular embolization. A 75-year-old man who had undergone tumor resection for parasagittal meningioma 4 years prior presented with intra-ventricular hemorrhage. Computed tomography angiography and magnetic resonance imaging revealed recurrent tumor invasion into the SSS causing occlusion. Cerebral angiography revealed multiple shunts along the occluded segment of the SSS, diffuse deep venous congestion, and cortical reflux. Borden type 3 SSS dAVF was diagnosed. We first performed direct tumor resection, followed by stenting for the occluded SSS and partial embolization of the shunts. After a 6-month interval, transvenous occlusion of the SSS was performed along the stent, resulting in complete obliteration of the dAVF. Sinus reconstruction therapy was effective in the immediate improvement of venous hypertension, obtaining the access route to the fistulas, and eradicating the shunts.

Surgical Outcome of Torcula Herophili Meningioma: An Institutional Experience

INTRODUCTION

Resection of meningiomas (THMs) at the torcular Herophili poses challenges to surgeons due to complex regional anatomy. The current study aims to evaluate factors affecting the extent of resections, progression-free survival, and the role of radiation.

METHODS

We did a retrospective study of all the THM patients treated at our institute between May 1987 and June 2022. The demographic data, signs and symptoms, surgical notes, postoperative details, and radiotherapy were gathered retrospectively. Survival analysis was done with Kaplan-Meier tests along with predictors of the extent of resection as well as recurrence.

RESULTS

A total of 39 patients qualified to be included in the study, with 10 male patients (male:female 1:2.9) and an average age of 50.8 years. The average follow-up duration was 75.9 months. Simpson's grade 2 excision was achieved in 19 (48.7%) patients, followed by Simpson's grade 3 excision in 17 patients (43.6%). Progression-free survival in subtotal resection was 60 months, and 100 months in gross total resection. Statistically, the extent of the resection was determined by the involvement of sinuses/torcula and the number of quadrants involved around torcula. A total of 16 patients received radiosurgery for the residual or small reccurrence of the lesion. Follow-up revealed reccurrence in 5 cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Torcular meningiomas are relatively uncommon, described in few reports, and represent a therapeutic dilemma. Though some experts recommend complete removal of tumor and reconstruction of the sinus, others suggest maximum safe resection, followed by radiosurgery. The present study reflects reasonable control of the residual lesion with radiosurgery after maximum safe resection.

Unveiling the Efficacy of Gamma Knife Radiosurgery for Tectal Plate Gliomas

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Tectal plate gliomas (TPGs) are midbrain tumors that grow slowly and have a benign clinical course. Most TPGs are low-grade astrocytomas, but they can encompass various histological tumor types. Gamma Knife radiosurgery (GKRS) is being explored as a potentially safe and effective treatment option for TPGs, although research in this area is limited. This study aims to evaluate GKRS's efficacy and safety in patients with TPG and provide a comprehensive review of existing literature on the topic.

METHODS

This retrospective, single-center study included 48 patients with consecutive TPG who underwent GKRS between September 2005 and June 2022. Patients diagnosed with TPGs based on radiological or tissue-based criteria and who had a minimum follow-up period of 12 months were eligible for inclusion. The primary end points were local control and the absence of GKRS-associated or tumor-associated mortality and morbidity.

RESULTS

During a median follow-up of 28.5 months (range, 12-128), the radiological assessment showed tumor control in all cases, with 16.7% achieving a complete response and 68.8% achieving a partial response. Pseudoprogression occurred in 6.2% of cases, with onset ranging from 3 to 8 months. Clinical outcomes revealed no permanent neurological deterioration, with symptoms improving in 14.6% of patients and remaining stable in the others. One patient in the pseudoprogression group experienced transient Parinaud syndrome. One patient died during follow-up because of unrelated causes. The mean survival time after GKRS was 123.7 months. None of the clinical, radiological, or radiosurgical variables showed a correlation with partial/complete response, clinical improvement, or overall survival.

CONCLUSION

There is limited research available on the management of TPGs, and this study presents the largest patient cohort treated with GKRS, along with a substantial follow-up duration. Despite its limitations, this study demonstrates the efficacy and low-risk profile of GKRS for TPGs.

Transpalpebral mini-orbitozygomatic approach for nonvascular skull base lesions: a single neurosurgeon's experience

OBJECTIVE

The authors aim to describe the advantages, utility, and disadvantages of the transpalpebral mini-orbitozygomatic (MOZ) approach for tumors of the lateral and superior orbit, orbital apex, anterior clinoid, anterior cranial fossa, middle cranial fossa, and parasellar region.

METHODS

The surgical approach from skin incision to closure is described while highlighting key technical and anatomical considerations, and cadaveric dissection demonstrates the surgical steps and focuses on important anatomy. Intraoperative images were included to supplement the cadaveric dissection. A retrospective review of adults who had undergone the MOZ approach for nonvascular pathology performed by a single neurosurgeon from 2017 to 2023 was included in this institutional review board-approved study. Descriptive statistics was used to summarize the data. Four representative cases were included to demonstrate the utility of the MOZ approach.

RESULTS

The study included 65 patients (46 female, 19 male), average age 54.84 years, who had undergone transpalpebral MOZ surgery. Presenting symptoms included visual changes (53.8% of cases), vision loss (23.1%), diplopia (21.8%), and proptosis (13.8%). The optic nerve and optic chiasm were involved in 32.3% and 10.8% of cases, respectively. The most common pathology was meningioma (81.5% of cases), and gross-total resection was achieved in 50% of all cases. Major complications included an infection and a carotid injury. Improvement of preoperative symptoms was reported in 92.2% of cases. Visual acuity improved in 12 patients. The mean follow-up was 8.57 ± 8.45 months.

CONCLUSIONS

The MOZ approach is safe and durable. The transpalpebral incision provides better cosmesis and functional outcomes than those of standard anterolateral approaches to the skull base. Careful consideration of the limits of the approach is paramount to appropriate application on a case-by-case basis. Further quantitative anatomical studies can help to define and compare the utility of the approach to open cranio-orbital and endoscopic transorbital approaches.

Combined Transpetrosal Approach: 2-Dimensional Operative Video

INDICATIONS CORRIDOR AND LIMITS OF EXPOSURE

This approach is suitable for petroclival lesions medial to V cranial nerve that extend in both middle and posterior fossa. It provides multiple surgical corridors with minimal brain retraction.

ANATOMIC ESSENTIALS NEED FOR PREOPERATIVE PLANNING AND ASSESSMENT

Several critical neurovascular structures of the petrous bone are at risk during the approach. Meticulous reading of the preoperative images is fundamental. It is mandatory to perform a thin section computed tomography scan, an MRI, and, in case of petroclival meningiomas, a digital subtraction angiography.

ESSENTIAL STEPS OF THE PROCEDURE

In the first illustrative case, we present our current "mini-combined petrosectomy" with minimal drilling of the labyrinth. Positioning, skin incision, and craniotomy are illustrated in the video. Once all the important neurovascular structures are identified, we perform the anterior and the posterior petrosectomy, with preservation of the endolymphatic sac. We continue with dura mater opening and tentorium cutting. After tumor removal, we can appreciate an unique view of ipsilateral and contralateral cranial nerves, as well as pituitary stalk and major arteries.

PITFALLS/AVOIDANCE OF COMPLICATIONS

To avoid injuries to the main neurovascular structures, neuronavigation, neuromonitoring, and Doppler can be useful.

VARIANTS AND INDICATIONS FOR THEIR USE

The second illustrative case shows an extension of the combined petrosectomy to the anterior fossa, this made possible to perform a transsylvian approach for this giant sphenopetroclival meningioma. The patients consented to the procedure and to the publication of his/her images. Appropriate consent was obtained for the publication of the cadaveric images.

Surgical Management and Outcome of the Planum Sphenoidale Meningioma: A Single-Center Strobe Compliant Study

BACKGROUND

The resection of the jugum (planum) sphenoidale meningioma (JSM) is challenging, and there is a scarcity of available data in the literature. This study aimed to describe the surgical management and long-term outcome of jugum sphenoidale meningioma.

METHODS

This was a retrospective, single-center, cohort study of 91 JSM patients treated in our department from 2005 to 2022. All the included patients have undergone surgical treatment. Clinical, radiologic, and surgical data were extracted with specific attention to the age at onset, family history, duration from symptoms to diagnosis, clinical presentation, quality of excision, recurrence, and treatment outcome.

RESULTS

WHO grade I and grade II meningioma were 83.5% (n = 76) and 16.5% (n = 15) respectively. Fronto-lateral 42.9% (n = 39) and pterional approaches 57.1% (n = 52) were the 2 major surgical approaches used for the management of planum sphenoidale meningioma. Twelve patients needed emergency surgical treatment at admission: 4 (4.4%) External CSF Shunt and 8 (8.8%) VP-Shunt. We have found a statistically significant (P = 0.032) association between the quality of excision and the risk of recurrence. The GTR (Hazard ratio = 1) of the planum meningioma protects the patient from recurrence within 60 months of follow-up. Postoperative complications encountered were CSF-Leak in 2.2%, Meningitis 4.4%, surgical site infection 2.2%, and surgical site hematoma 3.3%. The overall postoperative favorable outcome was 68.1% (n = 62).

CONCLUSIONS

The pterional approach has allowed the achievement of GTR for jugum sphenoidale meningioma with protective odds from recurrence risk.

Clinical outcomes and complications of eyelid versus eyebrow approaches to supraorbital craniotomy: systematic review and indirect meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

Eyebrow supraorbital craniotomy is a versatile keyhole technique for treating intracranial pathologies. The eyelid supraorbital approach, an alternative approach to an eyebrow supraorbital craniotomy, has not been widely adopted among most neurosurgeons. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to perform a pooled analysis of the complications of eyebrow or eyelid approaches for the treatment of aneurysms, meningiomas, and orbital tumors.

METHODS

A systematic review of the literature in the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Review databases was conducted for identifying relevant literature using keywords such as "supraorbital," "eyelid," "eyebrow," "tumor," and "aneurysm." Eyebrow supraorbital craniotomies with or without orbitotomies and eyelid supraorbital craniotomies with orbitotomies for the treatment of orbital tumors, intracranial meningiomas, and aneurysms were selected. The primary outcomes were overall complications, cosmetic complications, and residual aneurysms and tumors. Secondary outcomes included five complication domains: orbital, wound-related, scalp or facial, neurological, and other complications.

RESULTS

One hundred three articles were included in the synthesis. The pooled numbers of patients in the eyebrow and eyelid groups were 4689 and 358, respectively. No differences were found in overall complications or cosmetic complications between the eyebrow and eyelid groups. The proportion of residuals in the eyelid group (11.21%, effect size [ES] 0.26, 95% CI 0.12-0.41) was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than that in the eyebrow group (6.17%, ES 0.10, 95% CI 0.08-0.13). A subgroup analysis demonstrated significantly higher incidences of orbital, wound-related, and scalp or facial complications in the eyelid group (p < 0.05), but higher other complications in the eyebrow group. Performing an orbitotomy substantially increased the complication risk.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first meta-analysis that quantitatively compared complications of eyebrow versus eyelid approaches to supraorbital craniotomy. This study found similar overall complication rates but higher rates of selected complication domains in the eyelid group. The literature is limited by a high degree of variability in the reported outcomes.

Adjuvant Stereotactic Radiosurgery for Clear Cell Meningiomas

OBJECTIVE

Clear cell meningiomas (CCM) are an uncommon meningioma subtype marked by aggressive growth and high rates of recurrence despite initial resection. The present study evaluates the adjuvant benefit of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for residual or recurrent tumors.

METHODS

After review of our prospectively maintained database, we identified 6 patients (3 female) with histologically confirmed Grade 2 CCMs. The median age of the patients at the time of SRS was 45 years. Five patients had undergone prior gross total surgical resection and 1 patient had subtotal resection before SRS. The median SRS treatment volume was 4.7 cc and the median radiosurgical margin dose was 13 Gy (range: 10-15 Gy).

RESULTS

The median follow-up time was 35.5 months (range 6-168 months). Three patients achieved tumor control after the first SRS procedure. Three patients experienced tumor progression at 4, 22, and 32 months after initial SRS. Tumor control was obtained in 2 of these patients after additional SRS. One patient with multiple SRS procedures had suspected adverse radiation effect that was successfully treated with corticosteroids followed by bevacizumab.

CONCLUSIONS

Tumor control was maintained in 5 of 6 patients after one or more SRS procedures. SRS should be considered for early intervention after surgical resection of CCM. To maximize the tumor control rate, patients with diagnosed CCM should be treated more generously and higher margin dose should be prescribed. Patients with CCM should be counselled that more than one SRS may be necessary to provide sustained tumor control.

Digital 3D Exoscope is Safe and Effective in Surgery for Intradural Extramedullary Tumors: A Comparative Series

BACKGROUND

Digital 3D exoscopes have been shown to be comparably safe and effective as surgical microscopes in complex microneurosurgical procedures. However, the results of exoscopic spinal tumor surgeries are scarce. The purpose of this study is to compare results of a transition from microscope to exoscope in surgeries for spinal intradural extramedullary tumors.

METHODS

We included all consecutive patients with intradural extramedullary spinal tumors operated on by the senior author during January 2016 to October 2023. The 3D exoscope was used in the latter half of the series from November 2020. We evaluated pre- and postoperative clinical findings, imaging studies, intra- and postoperative events, and analyzed surgical videos from the operations retrospectively.

RESULTS

We operated 35 patients (exoscope n = 19, microscope n = 16) for intradural extramedullary tumors (meningioma n = 18, schwannoma n = 12, other n = 5). Tumors in the cervical and thoracic spine were more common than in the lumbar region. The duration of surgery was slightly longer (median 220 vs. 185 minutes) in the exoscope group. However, the rate of gross total resection of the tumor was higher (81% vs. 67%) and the tumors more often located anteriorly to the spinal cord (42% vs. 13%) in the exoscope group. No major complications (i.e., permanent motor deficit or postoperative hematoma) occurred in either group. We saw postoperative gait improvement in 81% and 85% of the patients with preoperative deterioration of gait after exoscopic and microscopic surgeries, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that exoscope-assisted surgery for spinal intradural extramedullary tumors is comparable in safety and effectiveness to traditional microscopic surgery.

Volumetric Analysis of Spheno-Orbital Meningiomas: Prognostic Correlation and a Compartmentalized Approach

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Spheno-orbital meningiomas arise from the arachnoid villi cap cells at the sphenoid ridge and have the ability to spread through soft tissue extension and cranial bone invasion. Owing to their orbital hyperostosis and intraorbital soft tissue extension, they commonly present with ophthalmologic manifestations. This study aims to investigate the correlation between tumor volume with the presenting symptoms and postoperative outcomes.

METHODS

This retrospective study analyzed patients who underwent surgical resection of spheno-orbital meningiomas. Tumor volumes in different compartments were measured using preoperative and postoperative imaging. Linear and logistic regression analyses were used to identify correlations between tumor volumes and presenting symptoms preoperatively and postoperative outcomes.

RESULTS

Sixty-six patients were included in this study, of whom 86.4% had proptosis, 80.3% had decreased visual acuity (VA), 30.3% had visual field defects, and 13.6% had periorbital edema. Preoperatively, proptosis linearly correlated with intraosseous tumor volume (coefficient = 0.6, P < .001), while the decrease in baseline VA correlated with the intraorbital tumor volume (coefficient = 0.3, P = .01). The odds of periorbital edema were found to increase with an increase in intraosseous tumor volume with an adjusted odds ratio of 1.4 (95% CI, 1.1-1.7, P = .003), while the odds of visual field defects were found to increase with an increase in intraorbital tumor volume with an adjusted odds ratio of 2.7 (95% CI, 1.3-5.6, P = .01). Postoperatively, the volume of intraosseous tumor resected linearly correlated with the improvement in proptosis (coefficient = 0.7, P < .001), while the volume of intraorbital tumor resected linearly correlated with improvement in VA (coefficient = 0.5, P < .001) and with a larger effect size in patients presenting with moderate-to-severe decrease in VA preoperatively (coefficient = 0.8).

CONCLUSION

Underscoring the importance of each tumor compartment relative to the patient's symptomatology serves as a valuable guide in implementing a compartmentalized resection approach tailored to the surgical objectives.

Intraventricular meningioma resection and visual outcomes

OBJECTIVE

Intraventricular meningiomas (IVMs) of the lateral ventricle are rare tumors that present surgical challenges because of their deep location. Visual field deficits (VFDs) are one risk associated with these tumors and their treatment. VFDs may be present preoperatively due to the tumor and mass effect (tumor VFDs) or may develop postoperatively due to the surgical approach (surgical VFDs). This institutional series aimed to review surgical outcomes following resection of IVMs, with a focus on VFDs.

METHODS

Patients who received IVM resection at one academic institution between the years 1996 and 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) reconstructions of the optic radiations around the tumor were performed from preoperative IVM imaging. The VFD course and resolution were documented.

RESULTS

Thirty-two adult patients underwent IVM resection, with gross-total resection in 30 patients (93.8%). Preoperatively, tumor VFDs were present in 6 patients, resolving after surgery in 5 patients. Five other patients (without preoperative VFD) had new persistent surgical VFDs postoperatively (5/32, 15.6%) that persisted to the most recent follow-up. Of the 5 patients with persistent surgical VFDs, 4 received a transtemporal approach and 1 received a transparietal approach, and all these deficits occurred prior to regular use of DTI in preoperative imaging.

CONCLUSIONS

New surgical VFDs are a common neurological deficit after IVM resection. Preoperative DTI may demonstrate distortion of the optic radiations around the tumor, thus revealing safe operative corridors to prevent surgical VFDs.

Transorbital neuroendoscopic surgery for treatment of sphenoid wing meningiomas extending to the cavernous sinus: clinical implications and a technical illustration

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of transorbital neuroendoscopic surgery (TONES) in the management of sphenoid wing meningiomas (SWMs) with cavernous sinus and orbital invasion.

METHODS

The authors conducted a retrospective review of 32 patients with SWMs treated at Gazi University using TONES from October 2019 to May 2023. The study includes clinical applications to elucidate the endoscopic transorbital approach. Surgical techniques focused on safe subtotal resection, aiming to minimize residual tumor volume for subsequent radiosurgery. Data were collected on patient demographics, tumor characteristics, surgical procedures, complications, and postoperative outcomes, including radiological imaging and ophthalmological evaluations.

RESULTS

Surgical dissections delineated a three-phase endoscopic transorbital approach: extraorbital, intraorbital, and intracranial. In the clinical application, gross-total resection was not achieved in any patient because of planned postoperative Gamma Knife radiosurgery. The mean follow-up period was 16.3 months. Of 30 patients with preoperative proptosis, 25 experienced postoperative improvement. No new-onset extraocular muscle paresis or visual loss occurred postoperatively. The average hospital stay was 1.15 days, with minimal complications and no significant morbidity or mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Total resection of SWMs invading the cavernous sinus and orbit is associated with substantial risks, particularly cranial nerve deficits. TONES offers a minimally invasive alternative, reducing morbidity compared with transcranial approaches, and represents a significant advancement in the surgical management of SWMs, especially those extending into the cavernous sinus and orbit. The approach provides a safe, effective, and patient-centric approach, prioritizing subtotal resection to minimize neurological deficits while preparing patients for adjunctive radiosurgery. This study positions TONES as a transformative surgical technique, aligning therapeutic efficacy with neurovascular preservation and postoperative recovery.

Endoscopic endonasal approach for olfactory groove meningioma resection: Strategies and outcomes in a retrospective case series

OBJECTIVE

Though the endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA) is a widely accepted treatment for skull base tumors, the specific use of EEA for olfactory groove meningiomas (OGMs) is debated, with variable outcomes reported in the literature. We review the surgical results of OGM resections for one surgeon including the operative approach, surgical nuances, and outcomes, with a focus on factors relating to patient selection which favor EEA over transcranial approaches.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed thirteen cases of endoscopic endonasal resection of olfactory groove meningiomas. Patient characteristics, clinical characteristics, surgical outcomes, and complications were analyzed. Extent of resection was determined based on volumetric analysis of pre- and postoperative MRI.

RESULTS

Anatomic characteristics that render a tumor difficult to access fully are lateral extension beyond the mid-orbit and anterior extension to the falx. Simpson Grade I resection was achieved in 11/13 (84.6 %) cases. Mean pre-operative tumor volume was 8.99 cm3 (range 2.19-16.79 cm3), and 92 % of tumors were WHO grade I. We demonstrate 2 cases of smell preservation, possible with small unilateral tumors and tumors that are confined to either the anterior or posterior portion of the cribriform plate. The post-operative CSF leak rate was 7.7 %, without prophylactic lumbar CSF drainage. The mortality rate was 7.7 % (n = 1) after infectious complications following CSF leak.

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic endonasal resection of olfactory groove meningiomas is an effective and safe operative method with outcomes and complication rates comparable to transcranial approaches. Key considerations include careful patient selection and familiarity with technical nuances of endoscopic endonasal approach for this specific tumor type.

Partial Labyrinth Removal Restricted to the Superior Semicircular Canal in Focal Combined Transpetrosal Approach: Description and Illustrative Cases

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

The labyrinthine structures obstruct the surgical view of the deep petroclival region in the transpetrosal approach. Historically, labyrinthectomy and removal of all 3 semicircular canals, with resultant deafness, was used in patients with ipsilateral functional hearing deficits to improve access. The advent and systematization of superior and posterior semicircular canal removal (transcrusal approach) with good rates of hearing preservation has allowed a redefinition of the possibility of partial labyrinthectomy in patients without previous hearing deficits. The present manuscript is intended to describe a technical refinement of partial labyrinthectomy during focal combined petrosectomy, offering a customization of the approach through the selective removal of the superior semicircular canal for specific types of tumors.

METHODS

The use of the technique is demonstrated through surgical drawings, pictures, and videos. The rationale to indicate this new approach is discussed based on clinical cases.

RESULTS

Three illustrative clinical cases (petroclival meningiomas) are demonstrated. Functional hearing on the approach side has been preserved in all of them.

CONCLUSION

The focal combined transpetrosal approach associated with the superior semicircular canal resection has been a promising surgical technique in the treatment of selected petroclival tumors. It has the potential to further decrease the risks of postoperative auditory and vestibular dysfunctions associated with labyrinthectomies.

The association of thromboembolic complications and the use of tranexamic acid during resection of intracranial meningiomas: systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

OBJECTIVE

Antifibrinolytics, such as tranexamic acid (TXA), have been shown to decrease intraoperative blood loss across multiple surgical disciplines. However, they carry the theoretical risk of thromboembolic events secondary to induced hypercoagulability. Therefore, the aim of this study was to systematically review the available literature and perform a meta-analysis on the use of TXA in meningioma resection to assess thromboembolic risks.

METHODS

The PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases were reviewed for all randomized controlled trials presenting primary data on TXA use during resection of intracranial meningiomas. Data were gathered on operative duration, venous thromboembolic complications, deep venous thrombosis, use of allogeneic blood transfusion, estimated blood loss (EBL), and postoperative hemoglobin. Patients who received TXA were compared with controls who did not receive TXA intraoperatively using random-effects models.

RESULTS

A total of 508 unique articles were identified, of which 493 underwent full-text review. Ultimately, 6 studies with 381 total patients (190 receiving TXA) were included in the final analysis. All 6 trials were randomized, blinded, and placebo controlled with a TXA administration rate of a 20-mg/kg load followed by a 1-mg/kg/hr infusion. All studies were performed in lower-middle-income countries. There were no reported instances of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in the TXA and non-TXA cohorts. Patients receiving TXA exhibited fewer allogeneic transfusions (21.5% vs 41.6% [OR 0.26, 95% CI 0.09-0.77], p = 0.02) and lower EBL (MD -282.48 mL [95% CI -367.77 to -197.20 mL], p < 0.001) compared with patients who did not receive TXA, and they also had lower rates of perioperative complications (10.7% vs 19.9% [OR 0.47, 95% CI 0.2-0.95], p = 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

Current literature suggests that TXA is not associated with increased risk for VTE when administered during resection of intracranial meningioma. TXA appears to decrease intraoperative blood loss and allogeneic transfusion requirements during meningioma resection and thus may improve the safety of surgical management of this pathology.

The trans-sylvian trans-petrosal "half & half" approach-a how I do it

BACKGROUND

Petroclival meningiomas are one of the most challenging tumors to be operated in the realm of neurosurgery. Many approaches have been developed over the years.

METHOD

The authors describe the Half & Half (H&H) approach whose main indication is petroclival meningiomas with suprasellar extension. The part of the tumor located above CN III and in the retrochiasmatic space is addressed through a trans-sylvian, while the petroclival portion is through an extradural anterior petrosectomy approach. The wide surgical corridor given by this approach allows extensive tumor resection while avoiding the risk associated with the manipulation of intracavernous neurovascular structures.

CONCLUSION

The H&H approach is an effective strategy to maximize the safe resection of petroclival meningiomas.

Analysis of risk factors affecting wound healing and wound infection after meningioma resection

To analyse the risk factors affecting wound healing and infection after spinal meningioma resection surgery. The surgical incision healing of 137 patients who underwent spinal meningioma resection at our hospital from January 2021 to January 2024 was analysed. The data collected included physical examination findings, haematological and biochemical measurements, and various scales assessed upon admission and after surgery. These data were then analysed. The surgical wound healing, infection and postoperative complications were statistically analysed. Multiple logistic regression analysis method was used to conduct risk factor analysis on corresponding indicators; the odds ratio and p value of 95% confidence interval were calculated. Factors such as age and smoking history were significantly negatively correlated with wound healing after meningioma resection (odds ratio < 1.000, p < 0.05), while preoperative albumin and platelet count were significantly positively correlated with wound healing (odds ratio > 1.000, p < 0.05). Age, WHO Meningioma Grading, preoperative albumin and preoperative platelet were significantly negatively correlated with wound infection after meningioma resection (odds ratio < 1.000, p < 0.05). The history of virus infection and history of neurological disorders were significantly positively correlated with wound infection (odds ratio > 1.000, p < 0.05). The influence of each factor is different. Age, smoking history, WHO Meningioma Grading, preoperative albumin, preoperative platelets, history of virus infection and history of neurological disorders had the greatest influence on wound healing and infection after meningioma resection.

Successful Surgical Treatment of a Giant Intraventricular Meningioma: A Case Report and Literature Review

In our study, we document the case of a 48-year-old patient who presented at our clinic with various neurological disturbances. Magnetic Resonance Imaging revealed the presence of an intraventricular meningioma located in the body of the left lateral ventricle measuring 60 mm in diameter. This tumor was classified as a giant meningioma, accompanied by a significant amount of digitiform-type edema. A surgical procedure was conducted, resulting in a gross total resection of the tumor. Histopathological analysis identified the tumor as a fibrous meningioma. Postoperative assessments, as well as follow-ups conducted at 3 months and 1 year post-surgery, indicated considerable neurological improvement. The patient exhibited a remission of hemiparesis and gait disturbances along with a marginal improvement in the status of expressive aphasia. This case report underscores the significance of achieving total and safe resection of the tumor and includes an analysis of various cases from the literature, particularly focusing on those that describe minimally invasive surgical approaches and highlight the benefits of radiosurgery in the treatment of giant intraventricular meningiomas.

Upfront stereotactic radiosurgery versus adjuvant radiosurgery for parasagittal and parafalcine meningiomas: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Parafalcine and parasagittal (PFPS) are common locations for meningiomas. Surgical resection for these tumors, the first-line treatment, poses challenges due to their proximity to critical structures. This systematic review investigates the use of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) as a treatment for PFPS meningiomas, aiming to elucidate its safety and efficacy. The review adhered to PRISMA guidelines. Searches were conducted on MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane. Inclusion criteria involved studies on SRS for PFPS meningiomas, reporting procedure outcomes and complications. Tumors were presumed or confirmed to be WHO grade 1. Data was systematically extracted. Meta-analysis was performed where applicable. The review included data from eight studies, 821 patients with 878 lesions. Tumor control was achieved in greater than 80% of cases. Adverse radiation effects were reported in 7.3% of them. Recurrence and further surgical approach were observed in 17.1% and 9.2% of cases, respectively. Symptom improvement was noted in 33.2% of patients. Edema occurred in approximately 25.1% of patients. A subgroup of 283 patients had upfront SRS, achieving tumor control in approximately 97% of such cases. SRS is a safe and effective treatment for PFPS meningiomas, both as an adjuvant therapy and as an upfront treatment for often smaller tumors. Post-SRS edema can typically be managed medically and usually does not require further surgical intervention. Further studies should provide more specific data on PFPS meningiomas. The use of single and hypofractionated SRS for larger volume PFPS meningiomas should be more explored to better define the risks and benefits.

Meningioma: current updates on genetics, classification, and mouse modeling

Meningiomas, the most common primary brain tumors in adults, are often benign and curable by surgical resection. However, a subset is of higher grade, shows aggressive growth behavior as well as brain invasion, and often recurs even after several rounds of surgery. Increasing evidence suggests that tumor classification and grading primarily based on histopathology do not always accurately predict tumor aggressiveness and recurrence behavior. The underlying biology of aggressive treatment-resistant meningiomas and the impact of specific genetic aberrations present in these high-grade tumors is still only insufficiently understood. Therefore, an in-depth research into the biology of this tumor type is warranted. More recent studies based on large-scale molecular data such as whole exome/genome sequencing, DNA methylation sequencing, and RNA sequencing have provided new insights into the biology of meningiomas and have revealed new risk factors and prognostic subtypes. The most common genetic aberration in meningiomas is functional loss of NF2 and occurs in both low- and high-grade meningiomas, whereas NF2-wildtype meningiomas are enriched for recurrent mutations in TRAF7, KLF4, AKT1, PI3KCA, and SMO and are more frequently benign. Most meningioma mouse models are based on patient-derived xenografts and only recently have new genetically engineered mouse models of meningioma been developed that will aid in the systematic evaluation of specific mutations found in meningioma and their impact on tumor behavior. In this article, we review recent advances in the understanding of meningioma biology and classification and highlight the most common genetic mutations, as well as discuss new genetically engineered mouse models of meningioma.

Factors influencing postoperative visual improvement in 208 patients with tuberculum sellae meningiomas

OBJECTIVE

Tuberculum sellae meningiomas (TSMs) usually compress the optic nerve and optic chiasma, thus affecting vision. Surgery is an effective means to remove tumors and improve visual outcomes. On a larger scale, this study attempted to further explore and confirm the factors related to postoperative visual outcomes to guide the treatment of TSMs.

METHODS

Data were obtained from 208 patients with TSMs who underwent surgery at our institution between January 2010 and August 2022. Demographics, ophthalmologic examination results, imaging data, extent of resection, radiotherapy status, and surgical approaches were included in the analysis. Univariate and multivariate logistic regressions were used to assess the factors that could lead to favorable visual outcomes.

RESULTS

The median follow-up duration was 63 months, and gross total resection (GTR) was achieved in 174 (83.7%) patients. According to our multivariate logistic regression analysis, age < 60 years (odds ratio [OR] = 0.310; P = 0.007), duration of preoperative visual symptoms (DPVS) < 10 months (OR = 0.495; P = 0.039), tumor size ≤ 27 mm (OR = 0.337; P = 0.002), GTR (OR = 3.834; P = 0.006), and a tumor vertical-to-horizontal dimensional ratio < 1 (OR = 2.593; P = 0.006) were found to be significant independent predictors of favorable visual outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Age, DPVS, tumor size, GTR, and the tumor vertical-to-horizontal dimensional ratio were found to be powerful predictors of favorable visual outcomes. This study may help guide decisions regarding the treatment of TSMs.

[Brain tumor surgery in adults.]

Despite the advanced medical and radiation therapy, the role of surgical resection of brain neoplasms still remains indisputable. The maximal safe resection of benign brain tumors may result in complete recovery of the patient. Surgery of malignant tumors can resolve mass effect, improve the neurological condition of the patient providing the possibility for further complex oncotherapy based on molecular level histopathology results. The advances in technical and multidisciplinary environment of brain tumor surgery facilitate more radical and safer resection resulting in better outcomes and preservation of quality of life, even in case of tumors which were considered inoperable until recently. In this review we present the recent technical innovations used in brain tumor surgery and discuss the surgical strategy of the most common tumor types (gliomas, meningiomas, cranial nerve tumors and brain metastases). The surgical management of complex skull base tumors, pituitary tumors, as well as neuro-endoscopic surgery and pediatric brain tumors are discussed in other papers of this special issue.

Deep learning-based automatic segmentation of meningioma from T1-weighted contrast-enhanced MRI for preoperative meningioma differentiation using radiomic features

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to establish a dedicated deep-learning model (DLM) on routine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data to investigate DLM performance in automated detection and segmentation of meningiomas in comparison to manual segmentations. Another purpose of our work was to develop a radiomics model based on the radiomics features extracted from automatic segmentation to differentiate low- and high-grade meningiomas before surgery.

MATERIALS

A total of 326 patients with pathologically confirmed meningiomas were enrolled. Samples were randomly split with a 6:2:2 ratio to the training set, validation set, and test set. Volumetric regions of interest (VOIs) were manually drawn on each slice using the ITK-SNAP software. An automatic segmentation model based on SegResNet was developed for the meningioma segmentation. Segmentation performance was evaluated by dice coefficient and 95% Hausdorff distance. Intra class correlation (ICC) analysis was applied to assess the agreement between radiomic features from manual and automatic segmentations. Radiomics features derived from automatic segmentation were extracted by pyradiomics. After feature selection, a model for meningiomas grading was built.

RESULTS

The DLM detected meningiomas in all cases. For automatic segmentation, the mean dice coefficient and 95% Hausdorff distance were 0.881 (95% CI: 0.851-0.981) and 2.016 (95% CI:1.439-3.158) in the test set, respectively. Features extracted on manual and automatic segmentation are comparable: the average ICC value was 0.804 (range, 0.636-0.933). Features extracted on manual and automatic segmentation are comparable: the average ICC value was 0.804 (range, 0.636-0.933). For meningioma classification, the radiomics model based on automatic segmentation performed well in grading meningiomas, yielding a sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and area under the curve (AUC) of 0.778 (95% CI: 0.701-0.856), 0.860 (95% CI: 0.722-0.908), 0.848 (95% CI: 0.715-0.903) and 0.842 (95% CI: 0.807-0.895) in the test set, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The DLM yielded favorable automated detection and segmentation of meningioma and can help deploy radiomics for preoperative meningioma differentiation in clinical practice.

Visual Outcomes Following Surgical Debulking in Exophytic Optic Nerve Sheath Meningiomas

PURPOSE

To report a case of a globular primary optic nerve sheath meningioma managed surgically with improvement in vision and review the literature for outcomes of purely intraorbital exophytic-globular primary optic nerve sheath meningiomas managed surgically.

METHODS

A literature review was conducted using Google Scholar and PubMed with the search terms "primary optic nerve sheath meningioma," "surgery," "exophytic," and "globular." Articles were included if they were available in English. Individual cases from the reviewed articles were included if the tumor was purely intraorbital with a globular or exophytic morphology, was managed with total or subtotal surgical excision, and visual outcomes were reported. Cases were excluded if the tumor extended intracanalicularly or intracranially, tumor morphology was unknown, or surgical management consisted of biopsy, optic nerve sheath decompression, or optic canal decompression rather than tumor debulking.

RESULTS

A total of 28 patients with intraorbital globular-exophytic primary optic nerve sheath meningiomas managed surgically have been reported in the literature. Vision improved in 29% (n = 8/28) and remained stable in 43% (n = 12/28) of patients. Furthermore, patients with good (Snellen notation ≥ 0.5) vision (n = 10) typically retained good vision postoperatively and at follow-up, with 1 patient experiencing a decline to poor (Snellen ≤0.1) vision at the last follow-up (92 months postoperatively). Similarly, patients with fair (Snellen notation >0.1 and <0.5) vision (n = 5) often improved to good vision (n = 3) or stayed at fair vision (n = 1), with 1 declining to poor vision at postoperative hospital discharge.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical management of exophytic or globular optic nerve meningiomas does not universally lead to vision loss and may be appropriate in select patients.

[Interactive Virtual Simulation with Haptics for Neurosurgery]

We established a unique pre-surgical simulation method by applying interactive virtual simulation(IVS)using multi-fusion three-dimensional imaging data, presenting high-quality visualization of microsurgical anatomies. Our IVS provided a realistic environment for imitating surgical manipulations, such as dissecting bones, retracting brain tissues, and removing tumors, with tactile and kinesthetic sensations delivered through a specific haptic device. The great advantage of our IVS was in deciding the most appropriate craniotomy and bone resection to create the optimal surgical window and obtain the best working space with a thorough understanding of the lesion-bone relationship. Particularly for skull-base tumors, tailoring the procedures to individual patients for craniotomy and bone resection was sufficiently achieved using our IVS. In cases of large skull base meningiomas, our IVS was also helpful preoperatively regarding tumors, as several compartments were achievable in every potentially usable surgical direction. Additionally, the non-risky realistic microsurgical environments of the IVS provided improvement in the microsurgical senses and skills of young trainees through the repetition of surgical tasks. Finally, our presurgical IVS simulation method provided a realistic environment for practicing microsurgical procedures virtually and enabled us to ascertain the complex microsurgical anatomy, determine optimal surgical strategies, and efficiently educate neurosurgical trainees.

Dose-Escalated Radiation Therapy Is Associated With Improved Outcomes for High-Grade Meningioma

PURPOSE

The optimal modern radiation therapy (RT) approach after surgery for atypical and malignant meningioma is unclear. We present results of dose escalation in a single-institution cohort spanning 2000 to 2021.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Consecutive patients with histopathologic grade 2 or 3 meningioma treated with RT were reviewed. A dose-escalation cohort (≥66 Gy equivalent dose in 2-Gy fractions using an α/β = 10) was compared with a standard-dose cohort (<66 Gy). Outcomes were progression-free survival (PFS), cause-specific survival, overall survival (OS), local failure (LF), and radiation necrosis.

RESULTS

One hundred eighteen patients (111 grade 2, 94.1%) were identified; 54 (45.8%) received dose escalation and 64 (54.2%) standard dose. Median follow-up was 45.4 months (IQR, 24.0-80.0 months) and median OS was 9.7 years (Q1: 4.6 years, Q3: not reached). All dose-escalated patients had residual disease versus 65.6% in the standard-dose cohort (P < .001). PFS at 3, 4, and 5 years in the dose-escalated versus standard-dose cohort was 78.9%, 72.2%, and 64.6% versus 57.2%, 49.1%, and 40.8%, respectively, (P = .030). On multivariable analysis, dose escalation (hazard ratio [HR], 0.544; P = .042) was associated with improved PFS, whereas ≥2 surgeries (HR, 1.989; P = .035) and older age (HR, 1.035; P < .001) were associated with worse PFS. The cumulative risk of LF was reduced with dose escalation (P = .016). Multivariable analysis confirmed that dose escalation was protective for LF (HR, 0.483; P = .019), whereas ≥2 surgeries before RT predicted for LF (HR, 2.145; P = .008). A trend was observed for improved cause-specific survival and OS in the dose-escalation cohort (P < .1). Seven patients (5.9%) developed symptomatic radiation necrosis with no significant difference between the 2 cohorts.

CONCLUSIONS

Dose-escalated RT with ≥66 Gy for high-grade meningioma is associated with improved local control and PFS with an acceptable risk of radiation necrosis.

Complications of the Superior Eyelid Endoscopic Transorbital Approach to the Skull Base: Preliminary Experience With Specific Focus on Orbital Outcome

BACKGROUND

The endoscopic superior eyelid approach is a relatively novel mini-invasive technique that is currently investigating for skull base cancers. However, questions remain regarding specific approach-related complications when treating different skull base tumors. This study aims to analyze any surgical complications that occurred in our preliminary consecutive experience, with specific focus on orbital outcome.

METHODS

A retrospective and consecutive cohort of patients treated via a superior eyelid endoscopic transorbital approach at the Division of Neurosurgery of the Hospital Clinic in Barcelona was analyzed. Patients features were described in detail. Complications were divided into 2 groups to analyze separately the approach-related complications, and those resulting from tumor removal. The ocular complications were subdivided into early ocular status (<3 weeks), late ocular status (3-8 weeks), and persistent ocular complications. The "Park questionnaire" was used to determine patient's satisfaction related to the transorbital approach.

RESULTS

A total of 20 patients (5 spheno-orbital meningiomas, 1 intradiploic Meningioma, 2 intraconal lesions, 1 temporal pole lesion, 2 trigeminal schwannoma, 3 cavernous sinus lesions, and 6 petroclival lesions) were included in the period 2017-2022. Regarding early ocular status, upper eyelid edema was detected in all cases (100%) associated with diplopia in the lateral gaze in 30% of cases, and periorbital edema in 15% of cases. These aspects tend to resolve at late ocular follow-up (3-8 weeks) in most cases. Regarding persistent ocular complications, in one case of intraconal lesion, a limitation of eye abduction was detected (5%). In another patient with intraconal lesion, an ocular neuropathic pain was reported (5%). In 2 cases of petroclival menigioma, who were also treated with a ventriculo-peritoneal shunt, slight enophthalmus was observed as a persistent complication (10%). According to the Park questionnaire, no cosmetic complaints, no head pain, no palpable cranial irregularities, and no limited mouth opening were reported, and an average of 89% of general satisfaction was encountered.

CONCLUSIONS

The superior eyelid endoscopic transorbital approach is a safe and satisfactory technique for a diversity of skull base tumors. At late follow-up, upper eyelid edema, diplopia, and periorbital edema tend to resolve. Persistent ocular complications are more frequent after treating intraconal lesions. Enophthalmus may occur in patients with associated ventriculo-peritoneal shunt. According to patient's satisfaction, fairly acceptable results are attained.

Metastasis of Intracranial Meningioma to the Osseous Spine: Systematic Literature Review and Case Report

BACKGROUND

Osseous spinal metastases from intracranial meningiomas are rare but represent a serious disease progression. A literature review was performed on this topic to understand the clinical course of patients with this disease entity. We also present a case of spinal metastasis in a patient with a World Health Organization grade III meningioma.

METHODS

The PubMed/MEDLINE database was queried on August 15, 2021, using the keywords (meningioma) AND (metastasis) AND (vertebra∗ OR spin∗). All publications reporting outcomes of patients with meningioma metastatic to the spine were included. Disease characteristics, treatment modality, and outcomes were extracted from each study. Because data availability varied widely between studies, no meta-analysis was performed.

RESULTS

A total of 30 articles with 33 cases were included. Outcome data varied greatly in terms of quality and length of follow-up. Of 28 cases with reported outcomes data, 20 resulted in patient mortality ranging from a few weeks to 5 years after spinal metastasis. Mean (standard deviation) survival time was 5.8 (6.4) years following initial diagnosis, but only 1.4 (3.2) years from spinal metastasis. The longest survivor was noted to have no recurrence of disease 4 years after spinal metastasis.

CONCLUSIONS

Bony spinal metastasis from intracranial meningioma is an extremely rare occurrence. Within the limits of the available literature, outcomes of patients with this disease appear to be poor. However, data reporting is inconsistent, and several articles did not report any outcome data. Further study is needed to better clarify the course and prognosis of this disease.

Management of cavernous sinus meningiomas: Clinical features, treatment strategies, and long-term outcomes

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this research was to summarize the clinical and prognostic features of cavernous sinus meningiomas (CSM), evaluate the treatment strategies and long-term prognosis of CSM, and improve the management of CSM and the treatment effect for patients.

METHODS

We retrospectively studied the data of 54 patients who received initial surgical resection and 45 patients who received initial gamma knife radiosurgery (GKRS) for CSM at West China Hospital of Sichuan University from 2009 to 2021. Progression-free survival (PFS), Karnofsky Performance Scale (KPS) scores and neurological function recovery were adopted to assess a comprehensive management strategy for CSM.

RESULTS

Gross total resection (GTR) was performed in 51.9 % of cases with 3.7 % surgical mortality. The average follow-up time was 48.7 months, with a progression rate of 29.3 %. The overall improvement rate for cranial nerve function deficits was 50.0 %. By survival analysis, the extent of resection and the histological grade were significantly related to the prognosis. The role of postoperative GKRS is uncertain. For patients who received initial GKRS, the progression rate was 17.8 %, and the overall improvement rate for cranial nerve function deficits was 61.1 %. Primary treatment with GKRS showed better long-term tumor control in patients with CSM (P = 0.046).

CONCLUSIONS

Maximum safe resection of CSM can improve the neurological function and quality of life of patients, but aggressive resection will cause high perioperative mortality and complication rates. For CSM patients who are suitable for initial gamma knife treatment, choosing GKRS can achieve better long-term tumor control and neurological outcomes.

Comparison of outcomes with/without preoperative embolization for meningiomas with diluted N-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate

BACKGROUND

Preoperative embolization for meningiomas is controversial regarding its effectiveness in reducing intraoperative blood loss and operative time. In contrast, some reports have documented improved surgical outcomes in large meningiomas. In this study, we retrospectively compared the outcomes of craniotomy for meningiomas with/without preoperative embolization with diluted N-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate (NBCA) primarily in a single institution.

METHODS

Data (World Health Organization grade, Simpson grade, maximum tumor diameter, intraoperative bleeding, operative time, history of hypertension, and time from embolization to craniotomy) of patients with initial intracranial meningiomas were compared with or without preoperative embolization from January 2015 to April 2022.

RESULTS

The embolization group consisted of 56 patients and the nonembolization group included 76 patients. Diluted NBCA (13% concentration for all patients) was used in 51 of 56 patients (91.1%) who underwent transarterial embolization. Permanent neurological complications occurred in 2 (3.6%) patients. Intraoperative bleeding was significantly lower in the embolization group for a maximum tumor diameter ≥40 mm (155 vs. 305 ml, respectively, p < 0.01). In the nonembolization group, for a maximum tumor diameter ≥30 mm, patients with hypertension had more intraoperative bleeding than non-hypertensive ones.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite its limitations, the present results showed that, under certain conditions, preoperative embolization for intracranial meningiomas caused less intraoperative bleeding. The safety of treatment was comparable with that reported in the Japan Registry of NeuroEndovascular Therapy 3 (JR-NET3) with a complication rate of 3.7% for preoperative embolization of meningiomas, despite the treatment focused on the liquid embolization material.

Ki-67 labeling index predicts tumor progression patterns and survival in patients with atypical meningiomas following stereotactic radiosurgery

PURPOSE

This study investigated whether Ki-67 labeling index (LI) correlated with clinical outcomes after SRS for atypical meningiomas.

METHODS

This retrospective study examined 39 patients with atypical meningiomas who underwent SRS over a 10-year study period. Ki-67 LI was categorized into 3 groups: low (< 5%), intermediate (5%-10%), and high (> 10%). Local tumor control rates (LCRs), progression-free rates (PFRs), disease-specific survival (DSS) rates, and adverse radiation-induced events (AREs) were evaluated.

RESULTS

The median follow-up periods were 26 months. SRS was performed at a median prescription dose of 18 Gy for tumors with a median Ki-67 LI of 9.6%. The 3-year LCRs were 100%, 74%, and 25% in the low, intermediate, and high LI groups, respectively (p = 0.011). The 3-year PFRs were 100%, 40%, and 0% in the low, intermediate, and high LI groups (p = 0.003). The 5-year DSS rates were 100%, 89%, and 50% in the low, intermediate, and high LI groups (p = 0.019). Multivariable Cox proportional hazard analysis showed a significant correlation of high LI with lower LCR (hazard ratio [HR], 3.92; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.18-13.04, p = 0.026), lower PFR (HR 3.80; 95% CI 1.46-9.88, p = 0.006), and shorter DSS (HR 6.55; 95% CI 1.19-35.95, p = 0.031) compared with intermediate LI. The ARE rates were minimal (8%) in the entire group.

CONCLUSION

Patients with high Ki-67 LI showed significantly more tumor progression and tumor-related death. Ki-67 LI might offer valuable predictive insights for the post-SRS management of atypical meningiomas.

Technical considerations and long-term results of endovascular venous stenting to control venous hypertension from meningiomas invading intracranial venous sinuses

OBJECTIVE

Meningiomas invading the intracranial venous sinuses may cause intracranial venous hypertension, papilledema, and visual compromise. Sinus resection and graft reconstructions, however, add significant complexity to tumor surgery, with the potential for increased morbidity. In this study, the authors explored whether venous sinus stenting might provide an alternative means of controlling venous hypertension that would be sustainable over the long term.

METHODS

The authors performed a retrospective review of all 16 patients with intracranial meningiomas who underwent stenting at their institution for venous sinus compromise. At presentation, all had headache and 9 had papilledema. Thirteen patients had 1 meningioma and 3 had 2 or more. Three patients had had previous tumor resection and radiotherapy. One patient had been treated with a lumboperitoneal shunt and radiotherapy. The median length of clinical follow-up was 8 years (range 4 months-18 years).

RESULTS

Venous sinus narrowing was often not confined to the site of meningioma, and bilateral transverse sinus narrowing, reminiscent of that seen in idiopathic intracranial hypertension, was present in 7 patients with sagittal sinus meningiomas. Eleven patients had stents placed solely across sinus narrowing caused by meningioma. Five patients had additional stents placed at other sites of venous narrowing at the same time: in one of these patients, a stent was placed across a defect in the sagittal sinus caused by previous surgery, and in the 4 other patients, stents were placed across nontumor narrowings of the transverse sinuses. In 1 patient, the jugular vein was also stented. Nine patients developed symptomatic in-stent restenosis at the meningioma site. Eight had further stenting procedures with variable success in restoring the in-stent lumen. The remaining patient, with a late partial relapse, is being reinvestigated. Papilledema resolved in all patients after stenting. Six patients experienced prolonged and very substantial relief of all symptoms. Five patients had persistent headache despite restoration of the sinus lumen. Five had persistent symptoms associated with resistant in-stent stenosis. There were no significant complications from any of the diagnostic or therapeutic procedures.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients who are symptomatic with meningiomas obstructing the venous sinuses, successful stenting of the affected segment can give a good outcome, especially in terms of relieving papilledema. However, further procedures are often necessary to maintain stent patency, other areas of venous compromise frequently coexist, and some patients remain symptomatic despite apparently successful treatment of the index lesion. Long-term surveillance is a requirement.