Colloidal radioisotopes as part of a multi-modality treatment of craniopharyngiomas

The therapy of craniopharyngiomas has always been a challenge for the neurosurgeon. These tumors often display a cystic or polycystic portion usually bigger than the solid portion. This paper reports therapeutic results in a series of 42 cases; the follow-up range is 10 to 23 yrs. The results are particularly rewarding in the group treated by stereotactic methods exclusively. In any case the optimal management of a craniopharyngioma should include a careful study of the anatomy of the tumor and the intracystic treatment as the first choice if more than 50% of the total tumor bulk is cystic and the number of cysts reasonable.