[Resection of brainstem cavernous malformations via lateral approaches]

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Neurology
• Vascular Malformations

Context:

• Brainstem cavernous malformations present significant surgical challenges due to their location.
• Traditional surgical approaches may carry high risks of neurological deficits.
• Lateral approaches offer alternative corridors for accessing these deep-seated lesions.

Purpose:

• To retrospectively evaluate the surgical indications and efficacy of lateral approaches for brainstem cavernous malformation removal.
• To assess the safety and outcomes associated with various lateral surgical corridors.

Summary:

• Ten patients with brainstem cavernous malformations underwent surgical removal using lateral approaches (retrosigmoidal, far lateral, subtemporal).
• Advanced techniques like virtual reality and neuronavigation were used in recent cases to optimize surgical corridors and minimize damage.
• Complete lesion removal was achieved in all cases, with preservation of associated venous malformations and significant neurological improvement in most patients.

Impact:

• Lateral approaches are recommended for brainstem cavernous malformations located on or accessible via the lateral safe entry zones.
• This study highlights the feasibility and effectiveness of lateral surgical corridors in managing challenging brainstem lesions.
• Improved patient outcomes suggest that tailored lateral approaches can be a valuable strategy in neurosurgical oncology.