Microsurgical treatment on 45 patients with cerebellopontine angle meningiomas

Objective To discuss the microsurgical approaches and results of 45 patients with cerebellopontine angle (CPA) meningiomas. Methods A retrospective analysis on the 45 patients undergoing surgical removal of histologically confirmed CPA meningiomas between October 1988 and March 2003 was performed with regard to microsurgical approaches and long-term outcomes. Results The meningiomas were totally removed in 12 cases, subtotally in 22, partially in 11. 3 died. 33 cases received γ-knife irradiation During 3-month to 15-year followed-up in 40 patients, favorable recovery was seen in 34, death in 6. Conclusion Appropriate approaches according to the size and site of tumors, intra-operative monitoring of facial and acoustic nerves, protection of vessels, nerves and brain stem, and right prevention of complications are all the keys to improve the therapeutical outcomes and the post-operative quality of life.