Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 17, 2026
11:58
Minimally Invasive Thumb-sized Pterional Craniotomy for Surgical Clip Ligation of Unruptured Anterior Circulation Aneurysms
Published on: August 11, 2015
16.7K
Brainstem cavernous malformations resected via miniature craniotomies: technique and approach selection
Adrian J Maurer1, Phillip A Bonney1, Allison E Strickland1
1Department of Neurosurgery, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 1000 N. Lincoln Boulevard, Suite 4000, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA.
Summary
Minimally invasive keyhole surgery for brainstem cavernous malformations offers excellent outcomes. This approach avoids extensive craniotomies, improving patient neurologic function and reducing deficits.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Neurology
Background:
- Brainstem cavernous malformations (BCMs) pose significant risks due to higher hemorrhage rates and potential for severe neurologic disability.
- Conventional surgical resection of BCMs necessitates extensive craniotomies, involving substantial manipulation of critical brain structures.
Observation:
- This case series details minimally invasive surgical resections of BCMs in eight patients with prior hemorrhage history.
- Approach selection was guided by lesion location relative to the brainstem surface, employing a standardized keyhole technique.
Findings:
- Postoperative transient neurologic symptoms occurred in three patients, resolving completely by the last follow-up.
- All eight patients demonstrated neurologic improvement, with four achieving complete deficit resolution.
Implications:
- Carefully planned keyhole approaches provide excellent surgical results for superficial BCMs, obviating the need for larger craniotomies.
- The presented technical nuances may benefit surgeons treating brainstem cavernous malformations.
