Transsylvian-transinsular approach to large lateral thalamus hemorrhages

Here, we aimed to evaluate the experience of transsylvian-transinsular microsurgical approach (TTH) to the huge lateral thalamic hemorrhages (THs). A total of 37 patients with huge lateral TH (hematoma volumes between 30 and 90 cm) who underwent surgical treatment through middle or distal TTH at the Bayi Brain Hospital from January 2007 to May 2012 were included in this series. By using TTH, near-complete (99%) evacuation was achieved in 29 patients (78.4%). Glasgow Coma Scale (GOS) scores were significantly improved at discharge compared with admission scores (P < 0.001). The overall survival rate at 3 months was 81.08% (30/37), including 51.35% (19/37) with good function (GOS, 4-5), 13.51% (5/37) with disability (GOS, 3), and 16.22% (6/37) in a vegetative state (GOS, 2). The mortality rate (GOS, 1) was 18.92% (7/37). Our series showed that, according to the extension direction of hematomas, to select middle or distal TTH is effective and safe for TH.