Preoperative embolization for meningioma using lipiodol

Four patient (3 males, 1 female) with meningioma treated by preoperative embolization using lipiodol since January 1997 were included in this study. Almost the same procedure was performed on them; superselective catheterization into feeders from the external carotid artery, slow infusion of lipiodol, and proximal occlusion with liquid coils. Duration between embolization and direct surgery varied (5-13 days). Three meningiomas resected 5 days after the embolization were successful but one resected after 13 days needed transfusion. Post operative complications were seen in two patients, one is lockjaw due to ischaemia of the temporal muscles, and the other is transient dilatation of perifocal oedema. The ischaemic effect and safety of lipiodol as embolic material are discussed.