Extradural approach for cavernous hemangioma of the cavernous sinus: experience with 13 cases

The clinical, radiological, and surgical issues concerning cavernous hemangiomas located within the dural confines of the cavernous sinus were analyzed on the basis of experience with 13 cases. The feasibility of radical resection by an entirely extradural approach using a basal temporal surgical route to this relatively rare and formidable surgical problem was investigated. Thirteen patients, four males and nine females, with cavernous hemangioma involving the cavernous sinus were treated from 1992 to 2001. The patients were aged from 15 to 55 years. Headaches and deficits of the cranial nerves coursing through the cavernous sinus were the principal symptoms at presentation. Vision was affected in four patients. The radiological features in all patients were similar with a characteristic pattern of extension and encasement of internal carotid artery. The maximum size of the tumor was 28 to 73 mm (mean 44 mm). An entirely extradural route using the basal temporal approach was used successfully in seven cases. Total resection was achieved in 12 patients and partial resection was achieved in one patient. The follow up ranged from 8 months to 9 years (mean 45 months). The outcome of extraocular movements was poor in our series, possibly due to the massive sizes of the tumors encountered. There was no recurrence or growth of the residual tumor and all patients were leading active lives.