Endoscopic transnasal resection of tuberculum sellae meningioma - case report

Introduction: Tuberculum sellae meningiomas (TSM) represent 5-10% of all intracranial meningiomas. Tumours are located on tuberculum sellae or chiasmatic sulcus of the sphenoid bone. These suprasellar lesions often displace the optic nerves causing visual impairment that is commonly the presenting symptom. Tuberculum sellae meningiomas are traditionally operated by transcranial approach. There is an alternative method to remove tumours of anterior skull base by using endoscopic transnasal surgery. Methods: In this article we describe a case of the patient with tuberculum sellae meningioma. Results: 63-year old women was diagnosed due to a headache, facial sensation defects on the right and peripheral vision loss. Ophthalmology examination showed bitemporal vision loss up to 10-15%. Using magnetic resonance imaging scan the tumour of diameter 8.1x8.0mm was located in tuberculum sellae. The endoscopic transsphenoidal operation was made confirming diagnosis of meningioma. In postoperative period the symptoms was almost completely minimalized. Conclusion: The treatment of choice for tuberculum sellae meningiomas is a surgery. Neurosurgeons have two options to remove the tumour: by transcranial approaches or via endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery with rhinologist. The decision of the optimal surgical technique should be individually made. Knowing possible complications during endoscopic approach, the benefits prevail. Cerebrospinal fluid leak is still challenging but using nasoseptal flap (Hadad’s flap) makes reconstruction easier. Recovery is quicker and postoperative results are promising.