Keyhole Approach for Excision of the Craniopharyngiomas

Objective To study microsurgical technique through keyhole approach for treatment of the craniopharyngiomas in order to minimize the operative trauma and optimize the therapeutic effects. Methods Skin incision was made in the eyebrow. The diameter of supraorbital craniotomy was approximately 2 cm. The tumors were excised by endsocope-assisted microsurgical technique in 8 patients with craniopharyngiomas. Results All the 8 consecutive patients with craniopharyngiomas were cured by the supraorbital keyhole approach. There were no postoperative complicatons. Conclusions The supraorbital keyhole approach can significantly diminish tissue trauma and provide sufficient space for the operation in the supraseller region, where the tumors are easily removed.