Microsurgery of tumors in the third ventricle via transcallosal-interforniceal approach

Objective To investigate the methods and effect of microsurgery of third ventricle tumor via transcallosal-interforniceal approach.Methods Microsurgery via transcallosal-interforniceal approach was performed in 11 patients with the third ventricle tumors,which included 5 cases of craniopharyngiomas,2 astrocytomas,1 pituitary adenoma,1 choroid plexus papilloma,1 hypothalamic hamartoma,and 1 germinoma.Results Total resection of the tumors was achieved in 9 cases,subtotal resection in 2 cases and no death case.The postoperative complications included polyuria,polydipsia,electrolyte disorders in 5 patients,central high fever in 2 patients,lethargy in 2 patients,and mutism in 2 patients,all of whom got improved and discharged after treated for 1 week to 2 weeks.Conclusion Transcallosal-interforniceal approach can provide a clear operative field through the anatomical gap under direct vision,and a good protection for the important structures surrounding the third ventricle.Microsurgery via transcallosal-interforniceal approach has the advantage of higher total removal rate of tumors and fewer complications after operation,so it is one of the best choices for the resection of third ventricle tumors.