Microsurgery treatment of tuberculum sellae meningiomas

Objective To study the surgical approaches, operative techniques and curative effects of tuberculum sellae meningiomas. Method Retrospective analysis was made on 45 cases of tuberculum sellae meningiomas operated with a variety of surgical approaches. In 14 patients,the tumors were removed through unilateral subfrontal approach, 15 through pterional approach,9 through fronto - orbital craniotomy and 7 through extended frontal approach. Results Of the 45 cases, tumor was totally removed in 42 cases, subtotally removed in 3. Postoperatively, the eyesight was improved in 33 cases, unchanged in 9 cases, and worse in 3 cases. Conclusions The surgical approach for tuberculum sellae meningioma should be chosen according to the size, location, growth pattern and adjacent relation of tumor. The microsurgical skill is the key for total removal of tumor and good curative effect. Key words: Meningiomas;  Tuberculum sellae;  Microsurgery